Nepean News 9 May 2019 by Nepean News

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ISSUE 251

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Kid’s shout Mark “MG” Geyer and Trent Pittaway, Licensee at the Pioneer Tavern have come up with a great idea to salute kids who try their best in sport. Read all about it on page 46.

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local news By KeRRIE DAVIES

o you have a great idea to transform a public place in your neighbourhood? Are you a professional artist or organisation keen to work with a community to create visual impact? Apply now for a Magnetic Places grant and make your idea a reality. Magnetic Places is a creative placemaking grants program which aims to activate public spaces with and for the local community. Placemaking is a creative and inclusive process where many different people can collaborate to make their local public spaces more sociable, accessible and attractive. Projects of different sizes are welcome to apply for as little as $1,000 up to $10,000 for local activities and workshop programs with local residents. Council can help connect communities, artists and organisations with each other for potential projects, and provide advice on applications. All enquiries are welcome. The Magnetic Places Community Placemaking Grants Program is celebrating more than a decade of supporting over 80 creative projects that have transformed local places and communities. 2019 grants are now open for new projects until Monday 1 July. Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM said Magnetic

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Places is a unique and wonderful program that brings people together and transforms local public spaces. “Magnetic Places is an incredibly successful program that has grown each year and produces amazing creative projects and revitalised public spaces in some of Penrith’s oldest neighbourhoods”, Cr Fowler said. “In a time when we are more disconnected than ever, programs like these bring communities together and help people build social connections that continue on well beyond the life of each project,” he said. Collaborations with local organisations and groups are especially welcome. For more information and to view past projects, visit: penrith.city/magneticplaces Applications for Magnetic Places grants open Monday 6 May and close Monday 1 July 2019.

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Nepean News 9 May 2019 Issue 251

Magnetic Places grants open

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From the Editor’s Desk

Nepean News 9 May 2019 Issue 251

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

Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644 Korena Hale 0403 045 880 Larry Davis 0432 062 643 Dianne Bonello 0418 813 319 Noel Rowsell 0424 007 202 Conner Lowe 0404 419 346 Stewart Moses 0417 680 533 Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893 Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown nepeannews@aol.com www.wsnewsgroup.com

By KeRRIE DAVIES

HILE I understand most people would rather have their teeth pulled out than get absorbed in a federal election, I’m the first to admit I’m one of those weird people who love every minute of it.

I love politics, and I especially love campaigns and elections. In fact, to put it into perspective in comparison to most people I know, Canberra is my Hollywood and all the political talk-back shows are my MAFS. I love it all. But there’s one thing about this election in particular that I don’t love, and that is social media. My goodness what an eye-opener it is to the rude, the crude, the cruel, the politically uneducated and worst of all, the political bullies. Every candidate, regardless of the team they are batting for, gets ripped apart daily by those who don’t agree with them. On Facebook debates flare up on the various news sites, ours included, and lots of people get to have their say. Personally I love a great debate - my own marriage thrives on it. Online political trolls, however, are rampant and they always manage to spoil a good debate. They trounce on those who have any point of view that’s different to their own, calling them names, labeling them and doing their best to bully them into submission.

Nepean News is not tossed onto your front lawn. Collect your crisp copy FREE from local newsagents, service stations, libraries, Council and shopping centres. Call 9834 5579 to find out your nearest outlet.

So often I see reasonably polite contributors either bow down to the bullies and sugar coat their own views in attempt to appease - or they disappear from the debate altogether because they have better things to do than stay trapped in the viper’s nest. It is great to live in a country where everyone gets to have a say. Let’s hope it stays that way, but I must admit I sometimes fear for the future.

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Sh our See op B, new us in 201 pr Hig em h S ises tP enr ith

e c i r P r e w Beat Po w! o N s U l l , Ca s e s a e r c In Let us Help you Avoid Bill Shock

On May 18 when you are standing in the privacy of the voting booth, you get to cast your vote for who YOU believe is best for the job, not who a social media bully thinks you should. Make it count.

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Speak to a local solar expert on the smart energy choice for your home To book a stall phone: 9623 7532 www.nepeansolar.com.au

We walk together

local news

By KeRRIE DAVIES

he Nappy Collective is calling on families to share the Mother’s Day love and make a profound difference to the lives of families in need. From 10 to 24 May, The Nappy Collective will run its national campaign to collect leftover, unused, disposable nappies and divert them to families in crisis. St Marys Village Centre is pleased to be participating as an official drop point where we hope the local community will help support The Nappy Collective. Customers can donate their nappies at the Centre Management Office, Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm. The initiative began in 2013, by a group of mums who found a handful of nappies that their toddlers did not fit into anymore. After considering the options of what to do with only six nappies - pass them on to a friend, keep them for the next child or throw them out - they thought, what a waste! They began to wonder if there were other parents out there that also had a handful or even half a box of nappies they were unable to use.

“What if we were able to collect all these left over nappies and distribute them to families in crisis or in need? Collectively these handfuls of nappies could make a big difference,” the mums pondered and The Nappy Collective was born.

• Must have good driving record • Must be available Monday to Friday • Department Of Education Drivers Clearance Preferred

Please contact 4729 0666 for more information

Nepean News 9 May 2019 Issue 251

Nappy collective

Special Needs Transport Drivers Needed ASAP

Stuart Ayres MP Member for Penrith

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

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local news By KeRRIE DAVIES

HEN an indication that something isn’t right comes up on an initial test such as bowel screening, the wait to see a specialist and then be booked in for a colonoscopy can be agonising. The process of being referred to a specialist by your GP who will then book you into hospital for a more invasive test, can take many weeks and in some circumstances months. By the time you receive either a diagnosis needing treatment or a clean bill of health, valuable treatment time has been wasted and your anxiety level is probably through the roof. Minchinbury Community Hospital has introduced a new Direct Endoscopy Service, which essentially cuts out much of the waiting time. The service provides patients with a direct referral for colonoscopy procedures, from the GP without the need of a formal first instance consultation by a Gastrointestinal Endoscopist Specialist. Both private and self insured patients are eligible for Direct Endoscopy as long as they present with obvious indication and have no serious comorbidities. The GP will assess the patient’s level of urgency and indicate this. The patient will then be booked in for their procedure within 30 days. Minchinbury Hospital will provide a kit for bowel preparation with written instructions. On the day of the patient’s procedure they will have a short consultation with the Specialist prior to their procedure. A written report will then be given to the patient for follow up with the GP.

*Valid until 31st May 2019, not to be used in conjuction with any other offer.

Minchinbury Community Hospital Director, Marilyn Piggott and Dr Guang Chen

Dr Guang Chen and Dr Sebastianus Kwon are both Gastroenterologists and are pleased to offer what is essentially an “express service” for endoscopies. “The first port of call is always your GP,” Dr Chen said, “Once the GP has determined on consultation that the patient meets the criteria, our Direct Access service can cut the waiting time by several weeks.” Australia has one of the highest rates of bowl cancer in the world with approximately 15,000

Australians being diagnosed every year. The good news is that 9 out of 10 bowel cancers are easily treatable when detected early enough. In fact, studies have shown that by having regular screening you can reduce the risk of bowel cancer developing at all. If you’ve had a worrying indication on a bowel screen test, talk to your GP today about potentially fast-tracking the process at Minchinbury Community Hospital.

Nepean News 9 May 2019 Issue 251

Fast-tracking procedure minimises wait time and anxiety

ELECTION COVERAGE

n Saturday, May 18 it is time to head back to the polls as we decide who will be the next federal member locally and collectively, as a nation, our votes will determine who will be the next government of Australia. Local readers of Nepean News mostly reside in the electorates of Lindsay, McMahon or Chifley. The electorates of McMahon and Chifley

are very safe Labor seats and it is expected that voters will return the sitting members, Chris Bowen and Ed Husic. Lindsay, however is on a knife’s edge and the previous Labor member, Emma Husar is not contesting the seat. You can find out which electorate your are in by visiting www.electorate.aec.gov.au

Candidates for Lindsay as they appear on the ballot paper: Brandon Lees Diane Beamer Melissa McIntosh Nick Best Christopher Buttel Mark Tyndall Geoff Brown Mark K.C. Moody-Basedow Jim Saleam

Conservative National Labor Liberal Greens United Australia Independent Sustainable Australia Christian Democratic Party Australia First

Candidates for McMahon as they appear on the ballot paper: Meg Libby Wrightson Damian Commane Zeeshan Philip Francis Chris Bowen Astrid O’Neill Vivek Singha

United Australia Party Pauline Hanson’s One Nation Christian Democratic Party (Fred Nile Group) Labor The Greens Liberal

Candidates for Chifley as they appear on the ballot paper: Josh Green Ammar Aziz Khan Joseph Oscar O’Connor Brent John Robertson Livingston Chettipally Ed Husic

Christian Democratic Party Independent United Australia Greens Liberal Labor

Nepean News 9 May 2019 Issue 251

It’s time to vote in the federal election

Nepean News 9 May 2019 Issue 251

ELECTION COVERAGE

Funding boost for Nepean and Hawkesbury hospitals

abor will provide $125 million for the Nepean Hospital Cancer Centre and $2.5 million for Hawkesbury Hospital’s Emergency Department – boosting vital hospital services for Western Sydney residents. Federal Labor will provide $125 million for a new Comprehensive Cancer Centre to be built from 2025, covering 50 per cent of the total estimated cost. The new Centre will include: The latest treatment technologies. Clinic rooms and treatment areas which are easily accessible to patients and their families; A higher number of rooms for inpatients; Dedicated space for world-leading research. Nepean Hospital serves a population of 450,000 people, which is expected to grow with the opening of the nearby Western Sydney Airport. Labor says it is clear that world-leading cancer treatment and research services are needed for the burgeoning population in the surrounding area. This comes on top of Labor’s $2.3 billion Medicare Cancer Plan – which Labor says is the biggest cancer care package in Australia’s history. “Cancer makes you sick – but it shouldn’t make you poor,” Labor Leader Bill Shorten said. Labor will also deliver $2.5 million for Hawkesbury Hospital’s Emergency Department, to help the

hospital cope with increased demand. This funding will allow Hawkesbury Hospital to provide three resuscitation bays, ten treatment bays, four paediatric treatment bays and a short stay unit with eight beds. “It will allow pressure to be taken off Nepean Hospital, which often is forced to take referrals from Hawkesbury Hospital Emergency Department when it is overloaded,” Mr Shorten said. “Labor can afford to fund adequate

hospital facilities for Western Sydney’s growing population by making multinationals pay their fair share and closing tax loopholes used by the top end of town. “A Shorten Labor Government will invest more in every single hospital in Australia with our $2.8 billion Better Hospitals Fund. “By contrast, if a Morrison Government is re-elected on May 18, the Liberals will cut $651 million from our public hospitals over the

next six years.” Standing with Mr Shorten was the Labor Candidate for Lindsay, Dianne Beamer. “As a state member I helped deliver Nepean Hospital’s original oncology unit, but under the Liberals these facilities have now become woefully inadequate,” Mrs Beamer said. “Delivering a world class comprehensive cancer unit at Nepean Hospital is why I’m getting back into politics.”

A fairer and cleaner future for all of us By NIck Best, Greens Candidate for Lindsay

I firmly believe the only way to secure Australia’s future is by prioritising environmental sustainability and social justice when structuring our economy, building infrastructure and creating jobs. I am passionate about science, so I’m glad that The Greens’ plan to transition our economy to renewable energy is based on the science. We will deliver cleaner, more reliable

power by investing in solar and storage, developing renewable energy zones and moving to 100% renewable energy by 2030. Doing this through a publicly owned energy provider is the way to ensure renewable energy savings are passed on to ordinary Australians. In my job, I encounter many refugees from war-torn countries in the process of rebuilding their lives through higher education. The sooner we can get refugees integrated into the community the better, so we

mustabolish all offshore detention and process asylum seekers here in Australia.Increasing Australia’s humanitarian intake to 50,000 per year is achievable and our country will benefit from having more people who want to become Australians. I am a proud member of my union – the NTEU. Beyond ensuring fair wages, I believe unions also have a role to play in ensuring that profitability does not override social and ecological objectives. If elected, I’ll represent our

community’s values in parliament and hold the major parties to account. Together we can create a fairer and cleaner future for all of us.

Labor commits to fuel pipeline to Western Sydney Airport

Shorten Labor Government would invest $71 million to build a fuel pipeline to the new Western Sydney Airport to avoid the need for trucks to cart dozens of loads of aviation fuel through Sydney suburbs each day. The investment would secure reliable fuel supplies for the airport without adding to traffic congestion on Sydney’s already clogged roads. The New South Wales Government is currently undertaking work to identify route options for the pipeline. Western Sydney Airport will open

in 2026 and be a catalyst for massive job growth in aviation and related industries. Shadow Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Cities and Regional Development, Anthony Albanese, said Infrastructure Australia has calculated that without a pipeline, the airport would require up to 65 B-double tankers to deliver fuel each day when it reaches full capacity. “Furthermore, Deloitte modelling found the cost of using these tankers, including the damage to local roads,

would be $140 million over a 25-year period, double the cost of building the fuel pipeline which the same report identified as the most cost effective way of meeting the Airport’s fuel needs,” Mr Albanese said. “While the new airport will be an economic game-changer for Western Sydney, the last thing residents need is dozens of trucks passing through their suburbs to deliver fuel. “A Shorten Labor Government would work with the New South Wales Government to finalise plans for a pipeline and deliver the $71

million construction cost via an equity injection into the Western Sydney Airport Corporation. “While there is bipartisan support for the airport, the Coalition has yet to commit to a pipeline, despite the fact that Infrastructure Australia has been advising it to identify and preserve a corridor since 2016. “Labor stands ready to deliver the Western Sydney Airport, but to do so in a way that minimises the impact on the region’s residents while maximising its economic benefits.”

ELECTION COVERAGE Lindsay Volunteer Grant recipients

he Morrison Government is backing volunteers across Lindsay, with more than $77,000 secured for vital organisations through the Volunteer Grants program. Grants of between $1,000 and $5,000 to help community organisations for a range of needs, including buying equipment, paying fuel costs, training volunteers or improving their fundraising have been allocated. Melissa McIntosh said volunteers embody the very best of the community. “Volunteers are the backbone of our community and it is their work which helps to make Lindsay such a great place to live. “Organisations like Mana Lana’s provide hot meals and care packages to people who are homeless or vulnerable within the community, they do such great work here in Lindsay.”

Senator Payne said volunteering greatly benefits the community – both socially and economically. “Australia has 8.7 million volunteers and the enormous value of their volunteering is estimated at $390 billion per year,” Senator Payne said. “Securing this funding for our volunteers started last year when I wrote to community organisations so it’s great to see this process come full circle. “This will make a real difference to these organisations who, unfortunately, often struggle to make ends meet.” Managing Director of Mama Lana’s Community Foundation Lana Borg said: “We feel very honoured to have received the Volunteer Grant that recognises the valuable effort that our Foundation’s volunteers put in day after day to help homeless and disadvantaged people in our community,” Ms Borg said.

1) Penrith Disabilities Resource Centre Incorporated 2) Fusion Australia Ltd - Western Sydney 3) GREAT COMMUNITY TRANSPORT INC LAWSON 4) Nepean Food Services Inc 5) Madi Ethnic Community Welfare Association Inc 6) Museum of Fire Inc 7) EDMUND RICE CAMPS BALMAIN 8) Leep NGO 9) help2help Limited 10) KARTING (NEW SOUTH WALES) INCORPORATED 11) Cambridge Park/Cranebrook Junior Rugby League Club Incorporated 12) Penrith City Australian National Servicemens Association Incorporated 13) Anglican Church Property Trust Diocese of Sydney SYDNEY 14) Nepean Hospital Volunteers 15) Zonta Club of Nepean Valley Incorporated 16) ST JOHN AMBULANCE AUSTRALIA (NSW) BURWOOD 17) Penrith City Choir Incorporated 18) Thornton Community Group Incorporated 19) Nepean District Historical Society Inc 20) St Thomas’ Anglican Church Cranebrook 21) Mama Lana’s Community Foundation 22) Rotary Club of Penrith Valley Incorporated 23) Nepean Community & Neighbourhood Services SOUTH PENRITH 24) Second Chance Toys N.S.W. Incorporated 25) Country Women’s Association of NSW Penrith Branch 26) Cancer Wellness Support Incorporated 27) Cancer Council NSW

$500K to keep the Nepean and Hawkesbury Rivers Healthy

re-elected Morrison Government will invest up to $511,000 to improve the health of the Nepean and Hawkesbury Rivers. Liberal candidate for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh, said that the Nepean River project would improve vegetation and tackle weeds in and along the Rivers working with Muru Mittigar rangers, Penrith City Council and the Hawkesbury River County Council. “The Nepean River is the environmental and recreational focal point of our community and it needs to be kept in tip-top shape,” Ms McIntosh said. “Weeds and exotic vegetation have been damaging the health of our River and have been disrupting recreational and sporting groups. “This funding package will address these problems by upgrading weed management infrastructure, like the harvester, and revegetating key sections of the River.” Liberal candidate for Macarthur, Sarah Richards, said “the project would also upgrade weed management infrastructure, such as the weed harvester, to increase the capacity of the Hawkesbury River County Council to undertake ongoing weed management.” Senator Marise Payne said the iconic Rivers will benefit from the health check-up. “The influx of exotic vegetation

and weeds on the Rivers has damaged their biodiversity and has alarmed local sport, business, education and recreational groups,” Senator Payne said. “This funding injection will ensure these key Western Sydney waterways are preserved into the future which is great news for the Penrith and Hawkesbury communities.” Minister for the Environment Melissa Price said the funding will be provided through the $100 million Environment Restoration Fund

announced in the 2019-20 Budget. The Environment Restoration Fund has three key priority areas: protecting threatened and migratory species and their habitats; improving Australia’s coasts, oceans and waterways; and increasing recycling of waste. “Our rivers and coasts are a major part of leisure and recreation for many Australian families, and this investment will protect the health of those important but delicate ecosystems,” Minister Price said. “They are also an important source

of habitat for many of Australia’s vulnerable native plants and animals, and conserving these areas will assist in improving the trajectory of our threatened species.” The Environment Restoration Fund builds on our $1 billion investment through the National Landcare Program and complements the Communities Environment Program. The 2019-20 Budget includes a $3.8 billion investment in a better environment, including a $3.5 billion Climate Solutions Package.

Nepean News 9 May 2019 Issue 251

Grant funding recognises vital work of volunteers in Lindsay

Nepean News 9 May 2019 Issue 251

ELECTION COVERAGE

On behalf of my four daughters By Mark Tyndall, Independent Candidate for Lindsay

firmly agree we need action on women’s issues. In particular Childcare and Parental Leave through to ‘Return to School’ Funding, Childcare Wages, Penalty Rates and the Minimum wage. All of have been raised to me as critical issues that effect the kitchen table budget and or whether one can even afford a kitchen table later in a women’s life. According to the poll at the centre of this article: “In bad news for our political culture, most voters (55 per cent) believe that many of the politicians in Federal Parliament are sexist. Only 22 per cent of voters do not.” My concern would be whether numerical quotas would solve this underlying issue? Given it this the Party Parties that have created this issue. Should we be leaving it to the political parties to determine if women are right for the job? In my view the “political culture” is all the more reason to remove self dealing, careerist politicians that have lost touch with the real world. Politicians who have lost touch with how families, single dads or single moms struggle their way through each

week, each purchase. I believe the parties should do no more, but I do not trust them. Moreover I think we need a more sophisticated set of measures to encourage female participation in politics? I did a straw poll with my daughters and female colleagues and the feed back boils down to this: ------------------------------------------------------It would be fair to have a certain amount of both genders represented and they see way more men than woman. Importantly it should always be the best person for the job; female or male, but it would be nice to see a fair amount of both. ------------------------------------------------------So on behalf of my daughters I think the best thing for woman’s issues could be these fine women from WomenVote choosing to run in their respective electorates as Independents. I truly believe when strong and intelligent women stand up, throw and elbow and get stuck in; my daughters and daughters everywhere will be inspired to do the same. I don’t think we should wait for or hope for a quota from the major parties, I think Independent woman should run anywhere and everywhere. I would love to hear from female voters in Lindsay. What do you think? How do we arrive a fairer representation? Is

forcing parties to adopt quotas the answer? Or is it achieved through better candidates and female independents competition to show they are the better option?

Former president of the Western Sydney Conservation Alliance

eoff Brown is the Sustainability Australia Candidate for Lindsay and has lived in Penrith for most of his life. “I have led campaigns against inappropriate developments in western Sydney impacting on quality of life and the environment,” Mr Brown said. Geoff was the convenor of the ADI Residents Action Group and then the president of the Western Sydney Conservation Alliance. “I developed the concept for the Cumberland Conservation Corridor and successfully lobbied the Federal Government which over several elections has committed $37.5 million to its creation. “I also led the campaign to stop the

development of the former Air Services Australia site at Cranebrook which is now the Wianamatta Nature Reserve, Sydney’s newest Nature Reserve.” Through his involvement in community issues Geoff has developed a great understanding of the political process and has run in local, state and federal elections as an independent candidate. Geoff also worked for many years in the community services sector including as a Student Welfare Officer at Western Sydney University. His other volunteer roles include starting and running the Werrington Community Festival for several years and organising and supervising at local bush care events.

Australia First Party’s slogan ‘Identity, Independence and Freedom’ By Jim Saleam, AFP Candidate for Lindsay

he slogan defines its programme. I have been the party’s candidate previously in Lindsay. I am 63 and hold a doctorate in Australian politics. The issues that affect Lindsay electorate are matters of national importance, given the control of our country is slipping away from us. This area is on the front line. The Aerotropolis at Badgerys Creek means a city of up to 100,000 people, mainly immigrants, including foreign students - and with a strong input from China. This development is not so much for Australia, but for purposes with a link to China’s ‘One Belt One Road’ empire-building schemes. It will profit a wealthy few and is a security danger to us all.

The planned new Penrith CBD, a ‘global growth precinct’, means the separation of Penrith from the Australian economy. We would be all but aliens there. I call this colonisation and imperialism and treason. The big parties call it progress. Whereas the great wealth of our country could support free education for our youth, free medicine, free roads and fair wages, it has been seized by foreign interests and local collaborators. I get in trouble with media and politicians because I have denounced the current immigration and refugee programs as sinister things that can produce cheap labour outcomes, a nightmare for our families and young people. A vote for me is for someone who cannot be bought or distracted from believing in ‘Australia first!’

local news

4308 squares, 131 blankets, 3 charities, 1 community! The Creative Fringe’s “Think Outside the Square” knitting challenge is into its third year of bringing warmth, love and comfort to some of our community members in need. “So far in 2017 and 2018 alone we have been able to donate 131 blankets to Mama Lana’s Community Foundation, The Haven Women’s Shelter and Westcare, these blankets were all so graciously created and donated by our community – both local and Australia wide,” said CEO Debbie O’Connor.

2019 – Let’s set the bar high! “This year we are at it again – the same rules apply – simply knit 20cm x 20cm squares to be made into blankets for both the survivors of domestic violence and also our homeless community. Whether you can donate a square or two or an entire blanket, we greatly appreciate your support,” Debbie said. This year our goal is to donate 89 blankets to local charities over winter which will bring the tally up to a whopping 220! The first round of the challenge ends on 31st May, followed by another round on the 31st July. All knitted blankets will be donated to either

Mama Lana’s Community Foundation, The Haven Women’s Shelter, Penrith Community Kitchen and Westcare. Do you love wine and cheese? Can’t knit but you can sew? Then we are talking to YOU! Knitted squares are piling high - just waiting to be sewn into glorious blankets to share with our community members this winter. Join us for our sewing bee on Wednesday 16th May from 5 - 7:30pm and take part in our “Think Outside the Square” Knitting challenge. Booking are essential for catering - head to: www.thecreativefringe.com.au

Ring, Swosh, Knock… p 1300 722 896 creative@thecreativefringe.com.au Unit 6, 51 York Road, Jamisontown (Penrith) NSW 2750

Nepean News 9 May 2019 Issue 251

Thinking outside the square for those in need

local news

The olden years can be golden years

Nepean News 9 May 2019 Issue 251

id you know that dogs and cats age around seven times faster than humans? Like us, their needs change as they get older. Knowing when your pet is considered senior will help them to get the best out of their retirement years. The approximate age where a pet is considered senior is when they’re older than seven. We also need to consider their breed – sometimes, larger breed dogs can age faster and have a shorter lifespan than smaller dogs. Because they age so rapidly, their risk of developing disease or illness increases. Senior pets require a different level of care to their younger counterparts. The signs of ageing can be subtle in our pets,

especially our feline friends. You may notice the physical signs such as: • greying around the face • less energy and sleeping more • trouble toileting • difficulty rising or walking • reluctance to jump from heights • appetite changes There are also internal signs that can go unnoticed without a veterinary examination. The key to a long and healthy life is early detection. Our senior pets are more susceptible to a number of health conditions including: • dental disease

• diabetes • kidney and liver disease • heart disease • arthritis • cancer Visiting your vet regularly and discussing your pets changing needs can help slow down and even prevent the development of diseases. Adopting a proactive care plan not only improves the quality of your pet’s life, it adds years to it. During a senior health check, we can perform a thorough examination of your pet’s joints, eyes, ears, teeth, skin, coat, and respiratory system, and also an assessment of their dietary requirements. A sample of your pet’s urine and blood can be taken for diagnostic testing, to help determine any underlying or early signs of health issues that are not visible to the naked eye. Diagnostic testing can identify changes in your pet’s body that may require close monitoring or early treatment. Making small adjustments to your pet’s home environment can assist them as they start to show signs of ageing. The companionship and joy that senior pets provide to you and your family is incredibly precious. Greencross Vet Coreen Ave will be providing special offers for all senior pets until 31st May 2019 – Please phone for more information (02) 4731 3055.

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

local news

wo local young adults will soon be walking in the steps of the Diggers that slogged up the Kokoda Track to face the Japanese war machine back in 1942. Mitchell Waugh and Rebekah Keehan have been chosen by Penrith RSL Club and Penrith RSL subBranch to take part in the RSL & Services Clubs Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge. The Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge program is designed for young community leaders and involves an arduous trek across the original Kokoda Trail in Papua New Guinea, presentations at significant battle sites and discussions on sacrifice, courage, mateship, endurance and leadership. Both Mitchell and Rebekah were speechless when they found out they were selected. Mitchell has plans to join the armed forces and recognised the opportunity to further his interest that he has carried through his studies of military history and international security at University. “I’ve grown up hearing stories of the legendary Kokoda Trail. I have read books on it out of my own personal interest but never thought I would be able to even picture myself standing on the trail and walking it. This is a dream come true”. Rebekah who is a Child and Family worker, is taking the trek to challenge herself and prove she has the fortitude to continue down her chosen career path working with disadvantaged communities and those within the justice system while honouring those who fought for our freedoms. “My freedom is not something I take for granted and the Kokoda Trek symbolises mateship, dedication, and perseverance which are all at the very core of our country”. Mitchell and Rebekah were honoured to take part in this year’s ANZAC Day service at Memory Park. Both laid a wreath along with 2018 Kokoda Youth

Leadership Challenge recipients, Amber Vella and Ben Sayer. Penrith RSL Club and Penrith RSL sub-Branch have been major supporters of the Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge for many years, sponsoring both staff and local youths. Their sponsorship covers the cost of the airfare, accommodation and food expenses, reaching well over $6,000 per participant. “It is a big expense, but we think it is a great program. The experience that participants have is life changing”, said Penrith RSL Club CEO Neel Chand.

Nepean News 9 May 2019 Issue 251

In the footsteps of heroes: Kokoda youth challenge

“Participants will hike over impossible terrain in tropical humidity. They will battle mosquitos, sleeping rough, constant mud and physical and emotional exhaustion. For all that though, they will also walk through real battle grounds, hearing stories about the soldiers and the ‘Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels’, they will experience first-hand the power and importance of mateship,” states Mr Chand. “As challenging as the experience is, it is a transformational and rewarding experience that one could ever have. It’s a once in a life time opportunity.”

› Full closure of castlereagh road at penrith for upgrade work Motorists are advised of changed traffic conditions from this Wednesday on Mulgoa and Castlereagh roads at Penrith for road and bridge upgrade work to be carried out. This work is being carried out as part of the upgrade of Mulgoa Road at Penrith between Union Road and Museum Drive. Work will be carried out between Wednesday 1 and Friday 31 May from 7am to 6pm on weekdays and Saturdays from 8am to 1pm, weather permitting. Some night work will also be carried out between 9pm and 6am.

To allow work on the railway bridge to be carried out safely, Castlereagh Road will be closed between Jane Street and Museum Drive from 10pm Friday 24 to 6am Monday 27 May. While the closure is in place, motorists will be detoured via Great Western Highway, Coreen Avenue and The Northern Road. Pedestrian and cyclist access will be maintained while the road closure is in place. At other times, lane closures will be in place on the southbound lanes between Museum Drive and Jane Street and may affect travel times.

During lane closures, traffic control and a reduced speed limit of 40 km/h will be in place for the safety of workers and motorists in the vicinity of the works. Motorists are advised to drive to the conditions and follow the direction of signs and traffic control. Roads and Maritime Services thanks motorists for their patience during construction work. For the latest traffic updates download the Live Traffic NSW App, visit livetraffic.com or call 132 701.

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Nepean News 9 May 2019 Issue 251

local news

Ambassadors announced: Mark and Montanna Geyer By KeRRIE DAVIES

hen you think about our local area, two of the most Penrithcentric names to come to mind would have to be Sinclair and Geyer. Both represent what is great about the Penrith spirit; and why we love living here. Ross Sinclair may have sold the business to AHG in May 2016, but his spirit lives on through the way the team still values their local customers. And big MG, Mark Geyer, is arguably our greatest locally-bred sports hero. The man who pioneered the feeling of pride in being a westie. He’s a massive mountain of a man with the ticker to match. The two great names of Penrith have come together, with Mark Geyer and his daughter Montanna - who is carving her own name into the sport of netball - being named Ambassadors for Sinclair Hyundai. Sinclair Hyundai Dealer Principal Toby Hughes said he was thrilled to have the Geyer name representing the brand. “Customers are loving it when they come to take delivery of their vehicle on a Saturday and they are greeted by

MG. He’ll even pose with them for their selfie,” Toby said. “Many of our netball fans are excited to meet Montanna as well.” Toby and MG are good mates outside of work hours, with the two often training together through Wild Panther Fitness. They also regularly join up to raise funds for local charities. “It is what I really love about Penrith,” Mark Geyer said, “Penrith is

really good at coming together. This town is second to none when it comes to helping those who need it, but we are also good at bringing local businesses together to help each other out.” When you look for your next car, call into Sinclair Hyundai on York Rd South Penrith and say G’day to Toby. You might see the smiling faces of Mark and Montanna while you’re there. Mark also knows the benefits of

driving a Hyundai vehicle, because he owns one. “I love my Santa Fe,” Mark said. “The style, the economy, the technology is incredible. The voice to text a personal favourite and it’s just an all-round great vehicle for family man with a wife and five kids.” Call in and see if you can find your next car today!

local news

With LUKE SPICER, Skyline Solar

urchasing solar is complex and confusing for customers. They need help in determining which retailers meet higher standards of service and will provide a comprehensive whole-of-system warranty, whose marketing claims can be trusted and whose directors haven’t run other dodgy solar companies that avoid their obligations and rip people off. Six years ago, a group of solar

businesses came together to address this problem and preserve the integrity of the solar industry. Skyline solar was one of those companies. It was a diverse group. Many of those present represented small or mediumsized solar retailers. What they had in common was a passion to end a race to the bottom on the cost – and ultimately quality – of solar power systems. They were also responding to concerns raised about a handful of unscrupulous operators who had begun entering an industry on the rise.

After exploring a range of options to raise the bar on retailing practices – and limit the activity of notorious individuals with a history of bad business behaviour – it was agreed to establish a voluntary industry code of conduct to allow the good guys to differentiate from the low quality players. While it was recognised that there are a range of regulators in the game (like the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, energy safety bodies and consumer affairs), none of them had the remit or capability to fully tackle dodgy retailing. It’s also worth remembering that regulators can only take action after someone has done something wrong. What was needed was proactive action to encourage better business practices to protect consumers, as opposed to dealing with retailers post bad practice. The Approved Solar Retailer program was the result. Established as a voluntary industry code after extensive consultation with the solar industry, regulators and a broad range of consumer groups and stakeholders, it kicked off in 2013 after being established with an independent review panel and authorised by the ACCC. As the program was voluntary, it took a while for the program to

gain momentum and reputation. We believed it was worth investing in for the long haul. State governments became aware of the program and its potential for sifting out unscrupulous businesses, and gradually more and more local and state governments have started to prefer Approved Solar Retailers in their own tenders and programs. The initiative helps to give governments greater confidence that customers will have a better experience, and that government subsidies do not line the pockets of a dodgy business operator whose last company has just folded and started up again under another name. There are now over 250 Approved Solar Retailers across Australia, many of them small and medium operators from regional areas. Retailers are being regularly audited and investigated and a mystery shopper program is also in place. Consequently a few retailers have been suspended or removed from the Approved Solar Retailer program. Skyline Solar continues to dedicate themselves to the program and what it represents with the utmost integrity, to protect the end users, you, the clients. Skyline Solar, 5/317 Windsor Road, Vineyard. Ph: 1300 759 765 www.skylinesolar.com.au

Nepean News 9 May 2019 Issue 251

Why we need the Approved Solar Retailer program

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Nepean News 9 May 2019 Issue 251

MOTHER’S DAY

A Mother’s love knows no bounds By KeRRIE DAVIES

rom the moment of conception, the tiny growing body of a child in the womb becomes the most important focus in a Mother’s life. Every movement, event and consumption from conception to birth is made with the welfare of the growing baby inside at the forefront. The birth of a baby fills the Mother’s mind and heart with emotion. These emotions range from pride in creating the most beautiful baby ever born, to tears in the knowledge that she could never bear anything to happen to the most important and most loved treasure she has ever known. As the new born baby grows and gains its first sight, learns to feed, cuddle and smile, the bond between the Mother and child strengthens with every minute and becomes even stronger than the umbilical cord that connected them from the beginning. As the baby becomes a toddler, the Mother’s joy at every step, every new word, the laughter and the tears become the Mother’s sole reason for existence. As she sees the child off to the first day of school, the Mother experiences a separation anxiety that is often far greater than the child itself feels. Her bundle of joy who has shared every moment with her is now stepping into the land of independence and the Mother’s heart soars to the point of breaking at the thought of the child experiencing pain or sorrow without her there to dry the tears. High school brings on a new heartache for the

Mother, combined with pride as she sees her baby slowly grow into a young adult. The teenage years are often dotted with disappointment as the child begins to establish a life that doesn’t include the Mother. As the teenage child’s hormones take over, anything and everything somehow becomes the Mother’s fault, but the Mother looks on with love in her heart for the child-adult who knows everything and is ready to be their own boss much

sooner than they should be. The Mother’s heart is ripped out of her chest as the child drives off for the first time with a newly gained driver’s licence. She will spend countless nights watching the clock praying for a safe return. Her heart skips a beat every time she hears a news report concerning a teenager and will be unable to relax until she sees the child-adult safe in bed each night. As the child-adult moves into adulthood, the Mother embarks on the rollercoaster ride of her life; experiencing every joy and heartache just as strongly as if it was happening to her. Her world is rocked with every new adventure; the first job or career move, first love, first broken heart. And as the adult child starts their own family, the Mother embarks on the journey all over again with the grandchildren, feeling every pang, albeit from a short distance this time round. There’s nothing in the world stronger than a Mother’s love. Sunday, May 12, is your opportunity to brighten your Mother’s world by showering her with love, affection and perhaps a gift. Don’t underestimate your ability to make her day the greatest she’s ever known. Since the day you were born she has focused on your every need, felt the warmth from your every smile, felt the heartache of your every pain. An extra hug or an “I love you Mum” means so much when it comes from the child who has rocked her existence since she first became aware of the tiny pea-sized body in her womb. Happy Mother’s Day

Happy Mother’s Day Happy Mother’s Day

Happy Mother’s Day

to our wonderful mum, friend and our biggest supporter. Thank you for everything you have done and still do for us.

We’re celebrating the “ amazing mum and grandma

that you are. Everyday we’re thankful that you’re ours! With love from the luckiest family in the world - Sue, Merv, Peter, David, Craig, Pepper & Milli.

Happy Mother’s Day To my loving wife of 51 years, the mother of my 2 boys, I will love you forever, Your lover Alan

“

Love Michael & James

Happy Mother’s Day

To a very special Mum, Nan and Great Grandmother. Thank you for always being there for us all. We don’t know what we would do without you.

Love Korena, Tamara, Jayme, Shannon, Corey, Jordan & Charlee

Brooke, Thanks for being the most amazing Mummy We love you so much.

A Mother Is Your First Friend Your Best Friend Your Forever Friend

Happy Mother’s Day Mummy Love Charlee xxx

Happy Mother’s Day Love Chloe and Jayden

Nepean News 9 May 2019 Issue 251

local news

Please help us turn horror into happiness

ragedy struck many families in the early hours of Sunday morning, April 27,

2019. In the intensive care ward of Westmead Hospital, Dennis Sales’ three kids held his hands and told him they loved him. Because of the tubes down his throat, he couldn’t reply, but he pointed at his heart and then at his children to let them know he felt the same way. Dennis is 44-year-old and has endured two 12 hour long surgeries. He has six broken ribs, a ruptured diaphragm, and a mess of misplaced organs which doctors needed to “rearrange”.

His injuries were so horrific, his stomach was pushed up into his chest cavity. Kenny Morrow, the driver, also suffered many fractures and had to have operations to repair a very damaged arm and hand. Dennis, the lead singer in a band and Kenny the keyboard player were returning from a gig at the Riverstone RSL in the early hours of Sunday morning when the car they were travelling in was hit head-on by another vehicle. Much controversy has surrounded the crash, and a massive public outrage when large media outlets released footage of Snapchat video allegedly from inside the little pink hatch-back moments before it hit the car Kenny and Dennis were in. The driver of the hatchback died at the scene. Images of the deceased girl’s friends taking selfies in hospital following the fatal crash were splashed across the front pages of metro newspapers. Innocently driving along the road after a night’s work, Dennis Sales and Ken Morrow have suffered horrific injuries. The vehicle itself is

a crumpled mess. They are lucky to be alive. It’s likely Dennis will be off work for at least six months, and his family is now worried about how they will pay the bills. A fundraiser has been organised to help, please see details on the next page.

As the fundraiser is a registered charity, all donations will be tax deductible. A gofundme page has also been established for the two men, $30,000 had been raised at the time of going to press. If you can spare a few dollars, the link can be found on Nepean News Facebook page.

Legends of the Nepean Milton Coutts By Noel Rowsell

Mick Dittman (Bint Miscay) & Milton Coutts (Golden Slipper 1993)

i l t o n Coutts is a readily familiar face in Penrith, acting as Clerk of the Course at Penrith Paceway every Thursday night and every second Wednesday night. Milton is also more widely known, having been a Clerk of the Course on Race Courses throughout NSW over the past 47 years, working with thoroughbreds (Gallops) and pacers/ trotters (Harness Racing). Born in Paddington in 1943 to parents Jack and Claudia Coutts, Milton lived with his family in Kingsford and attended several Primary and Secondary schools. Milton however was a reluctant student and spent as much time out of school as in it, eventually leaving as a 15-year old to work at Links Service Station and Kingsford Spare Parts. Horses were destined to play a huge

role in Milton’s life, with his father buying the family’s first pony in 1953. Milton would buy his first pony as a 15-year old in 1958 and spent countless hours riding the streets of Mascot and Kingsford with several of his close mates, with beach rides to Brighton a regular past-time for the young tearaways. Whilst working at the Service Station through the day, Milton would also work trackwork for local trainers in Rosebery of a night, honing his horse-riding skills. At 16 and 10 months, Milton went with his mates to a Rodeo in Fairfield to have his first try as a Buck-Jumper. A first prize cheque of £10 was enough incentive for Milton to begin touring the state with friends, competing in Rodeos on a regular basis. Milton subsequently won the Buck Jumping Championships at Warren NSW in 1961 and his winner’s buckle is still one of his prized possessions.

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Catching a Runaway on ‘Spotty’ at Penrith Paceway

Twelve men (including Milton) travelled together to Warren to compete - all crammed into an FJ Holden Ute for the road trip. At 16, Milton began breaking horses for Trainer George Baker, then at 18 went out on his own, employing other good riders and breaking-in an astounding 84 horses in a 12-week period. Milton moved to Ebenezer in the 1970’s and would continue to break in horses, along with training thoroughbreds and training and driving in the trotting industry. At his peak, Milton had 40 gallopers and 6 pacers all in work and says he was ‘fairly successful’. Milton bought his first pacer Erin’s Way for $300 from Billy Picken and owned ‘a lot of pacers and trotters over the years – some good but plenty

of bad’. Milton’s first role as Clerk of the Course was at Hawkesbury, when the regular Clerk failed to show and Milton was roped in for the day. His subsequent duty was another late call and Milton recalls taking a green 2-year old horse with only five rides along. “I was up with the daisies at the start but he was broken in by the end of the day” said Milton. His next duty was the start of the 47-year career, called up from his role as Barrier Attendant to replace a Clerk of the Course who was ill. That day changed Milton’s status in the industry and he would then become the regular Clerk of the Course at Hawkesbury, followed by many other racecourses and tracks. Among the most notable occasions

Milton Clearing 208cm in Showjumping on ‘Buddy’

are two Golden Slippers at Rosehill Racecourse, ushering Mick Dittman on Bint Miscay in 1993 and Shane Dye on Burst in 1992 through to the Winner’s circle. Milton also rode in Show-jumping events, with his highest jump a remarkable 208cm on ‘Buddy’. Milton’s highlights of his career include “the friendships I’ve made throughout the horse industry and also in life”. Milton carries a multitude of ‘war wounds’ from working with horses but carries them all with pride, along with a treasure trove of memories. Retirement is not currently on the radar but it’s hard to imagine Milton could ever fully step away from the racing industry, perhaps content to just cut down on his commitments when the time is right.

Bullriding Championship Buckle

Milton Coutts was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Ross Hutchison. If you know a local legend, send us a nomination at nepeannews@aol.com

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Nepean News 9 May 2019 Issue 251

local news

egister for this year’s Humpty Dumpty Balmoral Burn on Sunday 26 May 2019 to help the Humpty Dumpty Foundation raise money to buy essential and life-saving medical equipment for children’s hospitals and health services across Australia including Nepean Hospital - simply run, walk, crawl or scale obstacles 420 metres up Awaba Street, Mosman. On this year’s ‘Wish List’ for Nepean Hospital is a Panda Neonatal Resuscitaire Unit valued at $32,500 for the Postnatal Ward. With more than 20 different race categories at this year’s Humpty Dumpty Balmoral Burn, there is something for everyone and all levels of fitness – even the family pet! For those that like to really “feel the burn”, the high intensity obstacle challenge ‘Hill of Hurt’ will return for its fifth year. The annual Sydney event was created 19 years ago by Humpty Dumpty Foundation Ambassador and Wallaby legend, Phil Kearns AM, and in 2018 raised more than $2.7 million. Register at www.balmoralburn.com. au to participate in this year’s event as an individual, family, school, with your pet, or as a corporate team. Nepean Hospital has sought help

from the Humpty Dumpty Foundation to donate the Panda Neonatal Resusciatire Unit. The Panda Resuscitare Warmer is vital for providing infants with a purpose-built examination bed that includes a warmer as well as special monitoring devices. It can be stocked with other smaller equipment and provides oxygen needed for resuscitation and delivering babies, as well as treating critically ill babies. This life saving equipment will be used on a daily basis. “Join us ‘on the hill’ on Sunday 26 May 2019 for this year’s Humpty Dumpty Balmoral Burn as we raise money to purchase much-needed medical equipment for many of the 409 hospital and health services we

Penrith CBD Corp’s monthly coffee catch up at the Maze Cafe at Penrith RSL is a great networking opportunity for local businesses.

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support across Australia. With more than 20 race categories, great food and entertainment, it really is a great day out for the entire family. Together, we can make a difference to babies and children across Australia,” said Paul Francis OAM, Humpty Dumpty Foundation Founder and Executive Chairman. Date - Sunday May 26 2019 Time - first race starts at 8.40am (registrations open 8.00am) Location - Awaba Street, Mosman, Sydney, New South Wales Registration Cost - From $15 register online until 5pm Saturday May 25 for an early burn discount on selected race categories Register Now www.balmoralburn.com.au

About Humpty Dumpty Foundation Founder and Executive Chairman Paul Francis OAM began fundraising in 1990 and in 1996, the Humpty Dumpty Foundation was officially born. The Humpty Dumpty Foundation purchases life-saving medical equipment specifically requested by more than 400 hospitals and health services across Australia. Each piece of medical equipment requested is stringently assessed by Humpty’s medical sub-committee. To date, Humpty has raised over $70m and in 2018, Humpty purchased close to 450 pieces of medical equipment for Paediatric Wards, Neonatal Units, Maternity and Emergency Departments. The Humpty Dumpty Foundation provides equipment for approximately 20,000 children (0- 18 years) who are in hospital on any given day. On average in Australia, 1 in 5 babies will need medical intervention at birth. Locals, community and business organisations interested in supporting the Humpty Dumpty Foundation and their local hospital, either by donating a piece of medical equipment or by making a donation, can visit www. humpty.com.au or contact the Humpty Dumpty Foundation on 02 9419 2410.

Nepean News 9 May 2019 Issue 251

NEPEAN HISTORY

John Page and his “Saylhurst” Tannery

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

ohn Page was born in March 1823 at Salehurst in Sussex, England. He was baptised in May 1823 into the Wesleyan faith. His parents were John (Snr) & Elizabeth Page (Nee: Moon). John & his father were farmers at Sussex and John (Jnr) was known as a “farm servant”. It seems that both John’s parents had passed away before he came to Australia on the “Neptune” as a Government bounty emigrant at the age of 16. The Neptune arrived in Sydney in October 1839. It departed London in June with 284 emigrants under the care of David Geddes the surgeon. The Bounty Emigrant scheme started in 1836 with a limited number of children. Later, the Emigration Department of the Australian Government were looking towards England to supply farm & farm labourers, mechanics and female domestic staff - not exceeding 30 years of age who were “suitable, young, healthy and useful in work experience”. John was assisted by William Lawson (of the Blaxland, Lawson & Wentworth fame) to work on his farm in Bathurst with wages of £15 a year. The crossing of the Blue Mountains earned William a 400ha land grant near Bathurst where he built a house that he called the “Macquarie” on the O’Connell Road and it was here he served as Commandant until 1824 when he retired to his property in Prospect, leaving his sons to develop the inland stations. The house was said to be relatively modest, a three-bedroom and a single-storey house in the Colonial Georgian style. It featured an attic and a cellar, formed of brick arches made of sandstock bricks, probably convict-made and pit-fired on site and was stucco-rendered and had an iron roof. John was in the employ of William’s son, William (Jnr) from 1839. In 1842 at Kelso, John married Mary Ann Drawbridge (also known as Ann). She was born in 1826 and came out on the same ship as John, also as a Government assisted bounty emigrant to William Lawson. She was described as a house servant from Ticehurst (close to Salehurst in Sussex) and the daughter of Charles (a miller in Ticehurst) & Catherine Drawbridge (Nee: Oliver). They were of the Protestant faith. At the time of Mary Ann’s travel to Australia, her mother had passed away in 1837 leaving her father to cope with Elizabeth’s sisters Jane & Caroline. John and Mary Ann stayed in Kelso, and John, according to the Sydney Morning Herald advertisement in 1847 was working as a Tanner. (It is not known at this time where he picked up this occupation). In the Bathurst Free Press in 1850, John is mentioned as living in St Marys as a tanner, where he saved the little son of his neighbour Mrs Barrett who had fallen down the family well. According to his advertisement in the Bathurst Free Press in 1851, he was in Morrissett Street in

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Bathurst working as a “tanner & Currier” and selling his hides to shoemakers. He established his tannery “Saylhurst” at St Marys in 1856 after acquiring several blocks of the O’Connell Estate. This parcel of land of around 70 acres had the tannery on the southern side and at the far end of Pages Road (originally called Tannery Road), the rest of the area was used as a farm and “fattening paddock”. He employed a young Andrew Thompson whose father was a smalltime tanner at St Marys, also on South Creek who died of sunstroke. Andrew grew up to become a “Master Tanner” and owned one of the biggest tanneries in NSW, situated in Saddington Street at St Marys. His home “Mimosa” is on the corner of Putland Street & Pages Road. In 1858 John’s advertisement in the Sydney Morning Herald asked for “shop workers” at South Creek (St Marys). In January 1863 a warrant was issued by the Penrith Bench for the arrest of Thomas Wetherall, who was charged with wilfully destroying 20 cow hides to the value of £5 the property of his master (sic) John Page. Thomas was about 45 years of age, 5’ high with florid complexion, dark hair and whiskers and round shouldered. He was wearing moleskin trousers and other working clothes and was a currier and an Englishman. The warrant said that he was supposed to have gone towards Sydney. Just a month later another person under suspicion was Sam, a Chinese cook who was in John’s employ about the time of the robbery. He was about 18 years of age, 5’4” high and his left eye twitched and could speak good English. He was dressed in old fustian trousers, white shirt, and black cloth cap with peak. He was said to have stolen from John’s house, 1 pair white blankets and 1 blue cotton shirt that were all nearly new and valued at 16/-. This must have saddened John because it is said that he employed 50 workers on his farm and tannery, where he supplied morning and afternoon tea and he employed the children of the district during the summer holidays, husking the corncobs, where he would entertain them. Due to a forced mortgage closure, John’s tannery was taken over by Robert Saddington and Sons in 1871 and John and Mary Ann moved to Flemington in Victoria around that time. In May 1873, he was advertising in the Argus newspaper, wanting a situation as working manager in Flemington stating that he had 25 years experience as a tanner with first-class testimonials. Not long after, John passed away in September 1874 in the Castlemaine Hospital in Victoria. He was 52 years of age. His occupation on the death certificate says “Currier”. Mary Ann died in Victoria in 1878 at the age of 52. They had no children. Sources: Ancestry, Family Search (Mormon Site), Deaths Victoria website, NSW Police Gazette & weekly record of crime, The Argus-Vic, Trove, Margaret Farm-Mary Putland O’Connell, Office of Environment & Heritage online, Penrith Council Industrial History.

Contact Michelle for Pre-Planning & Pre-Paid Funerals

HEALTH

Hypnosis, the forgotten genie!

Nepean News 9 May 2019 Issue 251

By Dr. R.S. Muthukrishnan

laddin’s lamp has a genie inside waiting for your command. But you have been too busy looking around everywhere struggling to make a living. If only you can remember to turn to the genie and express your wish. It’ll say, “That’s your command, sir I’ll fulfil it!” and so it will do. Clinical hypnosis, almost works like a genie. Simple everyday issues like stress and anxiety, depression and panic attacks, fears and phobias, addictions of any kind, dysfunctional relationships and sexual issues, the heart-wrenching pain of unrequited love or broken marriage, poor performance in sports and studies et cetera can be easily treated with hypnosis by trained general practitioners or psychologists. Two weeks ago, a third-year medical student was brought to me

Ask

Nita

acutely depressed ready to throw away his course, girlfriend and life. He was suicidal. Traditional psychotherapy and antidepressants didn’t help. After a few sessions of hypnosis, now he’s back at his college, enjoying his relationship and life pursuing his medical course better than ever before. A 25-year-old beautiful divorcee, uncontrollably addicted to alcohol was brought to my clinic by her current partner. Her extreme alcoholism had put her in jail a few times. While she was in the waiting room for her turn, she managed to go to the toilet and gulped one whole bottle of wine! A few sessions of hypnosis, she regained lasting sobriety and healthy love for life. Smokers, drug addicts, gamblers – all of them give up their addictive habits almost like magic with hypnosis. I also help cancer patients and their carers find peace and healing toward a stress free and pain-free life. A host of everyday clinical issues like these, seen in the consulting rooms of GPs and psychologists, can be easily and pleasantly treated with clinical hypnosis with laser like speed. I treat a lot of doctors, their friends and families with hypnotherapy, but

unfortunately the bulk of my referrals comes – not from GPs but from the general public and by word-of-mouth from my former patients! GPs and psychologists, however, have beautiful opportunities to learn Clinical Hypnosis. I teach clinical hypnosis for the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, through my school Awareness School of Hypnosis. The Australian Society of Hypnosis and the College of Medical Hypnosis at Westmead also teach hypnosis for GPs and psychologists. They can also get 240 CPD category one points if they do my course. Other colleges offer CPD points too. With all these, clinical hypnosis still remains a forgotten genie maybe because of the stigma it still has as stage hypnosis. My patients, anybody who has gone through clinical hypnosis, and my GP trainees – all will tell you that it is totally different from stage hypnosis but it’s a loving beautiful genie waiting to help you! You will never be made to walk like a chook or sing like Frank Sinatra while in therapy! But against popular belief, while you are in hypnosis, you don’t lose control, you are fully aware of what’s going around and you can anytime snap out of the session if you

How much filler is needed for a great result? Lines will need to be filled with a lighter filler and skin rejuvenated by having skin booster injections to hydrate the skin. These treatments are additional to the volumising / restoring fillers of the ageing face. So basically for the clinician to achieve the results that is desired they will have to do a thorough facial assessment of bone and fat loss. Estimate the approximate amount of fillers that is required (in those areas that need restoring) and plan a treatment schedule. At Immersion Clinical Spa we offer complimentary facial assessments by a cosmetic nurse specialist. Call 02 4732 4009.

A regular column to answer your medical cosmetic queries

here are amazing rejuvenation results using fillers. Also known as “liquid” face lifts. Fillers are injected to restore areas that have lost volume in the ageing face. However, most people do not realise how much filler is needed to achieve those results, that at least 6 – 10 Mls of filler is required.

do not want to continue. The hypnotist never has any control over you. He only guides you along the journey of healing, as much as a driving instructor teaches you how to drive and a swimming coach trains you how to swim. My brand of hypnosis combines meditation and NLP with my treatment protocol, so it has a powerful transformational trancelike uplifting quality. Personal transformation, performance enhancement and lifestyle changes at any level are my speciality With this kind of hypnosis, over the last 45 years of my practice I have transformed the lives of thousands of patients and hundreds of doctors across Australia. I wish more doctors and patients would make use of this wonderful modality of treatment. Books by the author: 1. Software for Your Soul (or how to(re) program your life better living) available at Amazon, Dymocks bookshop Penrith and at Kingswood Medical Centre 2. Kickstart Your Consciousness e-book available online and at Kingswood Medical Centre.(or how to awaken the power within)

7 mls of filler was used to rejuvenate this 40 year old lady

A rule of thumb is that a person would require a minimum of 1ml of filler per decade that they are. So if you’re 60 you’ll need at least 6mls! Depending on the individual assessment of needs that could go up

to 10mls. Budget can be an issue so treatments can be planned to volumise an area at a time, ie. temples, eyes, cheeks, chin, lips, jawline until desired results are achieved.

The tablespoons represents a visual perception of the volume of filler per ml

Kingswood Medical Centre ✓ lose weight ✓ stop drinking ✓ stop gambling ✓ give up marijuana ✓ give up cocaine ✓ give up ice ✓ give up stress, depression, panic and anxiety ✓ regain health and wellbeing ✓ resume sexual health ✓ fix your marriage ✓ enjoy your relationship ✓ work better ✓ study well

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Nepean News 9 May 2019 Issue 251

SUDOKU: HARD

ENTERTAINMENT

INSTRUCTIONS SOLUTIONS: 25 April MEDIUM

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

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 In a strong manner (8) 5 A Hindu festival (6) 9 Dressing gown (8) 10 Seasonings (6) 12 Usurp authority (9) 13 Diameters (5) 14 Neuter (4) 16 Unsinkable ship (7) 19 Madison Square _______ (7) 21 A star in the constellation Cetus (4) 24 Classical music theatre (5) 25 Opulent (9) 27 Equipped (6) 28 Shouter (8) 29 Military trainees (6) 30 Unfriendly (8)

solution 25/4/19

DOWN 1 Some winners get a blue one (6) 2 In some mysteries, he did it (6) 3 A small fatty European fish (5) 4 Freedom (7) 6 Emperor (9) 7 Collision (8) 8 Inherent aptitude (8) 11 Strike (4) 15 Encountered generally (9) 17 Uncertain of religious truths (8) 18 Land ownership (8) 20 Pout (4) 21 From Mexico (7) 22 Pertaining to the universe (6) 23 Stellar (6) 26 Genus of rhubarb (5)

There was a great roll-up to support St Clair Comets last week at the Sportman’s Lunch at the Blue Cattle Dog Hotel. Speakers Mark “MG” Geyer and Brad Fittler were very entertaining and lunch was superb! Photos: Craig Bunyon Photography

Social Butterfly

31 Nepean News 9 May 2019 Issue 251

St Clair Comets

ENTERTAINMENT

Cnr Glebe Place & Richmond Road Kingswood NSW Ph: (02) 4722 8180 www.penrithgaels.com.au

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Win a 3 night Comedy Cruise on the P&O Pacific Explorer in this year’s Mother’s Day raffle! Prize includes 2x adults in a balcony twin room. Cruise departs 22 November and returns 25 November 2019. This prize is valued at $1,000! Raffle tickets are just $2 each or 3 for $5. Tickets available at reception now! Our Mother’s Day raffle will be drawn on Sunday 12 May after the regular raffle.

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WEDNESDAY 22 MAY, 10.45AM Come along & enjoy a free Tea or Coffee There will be: Cupcakes for Sale, a Raffle with loads of Prizes or Please make a Donation

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SATURDAY 11 MAY - 7PM Pink & Lady Gaga Show

SUNDAY 12 MAY - 5.30PM Soul Jamz

FRIDAY 17 MAY - 8PM Skyz the Limit

SATURDAY 18 MAY - 8PM Soul Jamz

ENTERTAINMENT

oy Dalgarno (1910 - 2001) was an Australian artist committed to portraying humanity in working class labour, as they built the wealth of the modern Australian nation. Dalgarno looked for his subjects down mines, on the wharves, on factory floors and in steelworks. He made drawings of miners, dock workers and sheet metal workers from life and then created expressive yet realistic prints. Dalgarno expertly utilised the dramatic graphic potential of printmaking throughout his career to depict the stoic character of manual labourers. He had an enduring interest in realism in art as a way of representing the dignity and harsh reality of working life. “This is a really exciting addition to the outstanding Penrith Regional Gallery collection. The inclusion of this series of artworks, generously gifted by the Dalgarno family, enables us to tell a deeper story of modernism in Sydney. He is a compelling artist,” said Sheona White, Director (Interim) Penrith Regional Gallery.

“As we get far enough away to see it in perspective, it becomes clear that social realism is as essential a part of modernism as abstraction, and almost forgotten social realist artists like Roy Dalgarno suddenly loom up out of the darkness like the mine workers in his paintings, monumental, battered, barely recognisable.” Ian Milliss, artist and catalogue essay author. Dalgarno trained as a commercial lithographer in the late 1920’s and was influenced by European artists such as Honoré Daumier, George

Running with Rossco with Reverend Ross Hutchison

Good habits lead to confidence, inspiration and serenity Probably the hardest thing we can do is take a good look at ourselves. I speak often, of us taking life for granted. How we forget to take everything we can out of it. We fail to embrace the miracles that surround us every minute of every day. How, with a simple program of self discipline, we can allow meditation to become our medication! Even when something so shiny and bright grabs our our attention, do we hesitate and meditate on its physical and spiritual beauty? Probably not! So, just taking a few moments to contemplate the fabulous engineering of a rose, a sea shell, .or what about a single feather..? A few moments of this practice, will lead you into minutes upon minutes of contemplating and meditation... You only have to practice this a few times and this good habit will bring immeasurable joy and personal healing! Plus great self confidence, inspiration and serenity Simply put, let your meditation become your medication I personally guarantee It! Cheers and COTIPYTAS Rossco

Grosz and Otto Dix. He studied art at the National Gallery Art School in Melbourne, Dattilo Rubbo’s Studio and the National Art School, East Sydney Technical College in Sydney, the Ecole des Beaux Arts and William Hayter’s Atelier 17 in Paris. Roy’s practice was also shaped by the artistic and bohemian crowd he socialised and studied with as a young man. Dalgarno’s beliefs reflected a growing mood for societal change that was largely encouraged by the enduring hardship and despair of two

world wars and the great economic depression of the 1930’s. Dalgarno was well read and attracted to the rebellious undertones in some of the literature. He was fascinated by the ‘human condition’ and in 1945 was a founding member of S.O.R.A (Studio of Realist Art, Sydney). This was an artists’ group which aimed to “bring art into closer relationship to contemporary life” according Bernard Smith, known as Australia’s most important art historian. Roy Dalgarno – Labour Day celebrates modernism through social realism in Australian art,and commemorates the gift to the community of Penrith with these prints from a fascinating Australian artist. Please see attached a media release for this exhibition, which also includes high resolution images of Roy’s artwork. Details Roy Dalgarno; Labour Day, Penrith Regional gallery; home of the Lewers Bequest Ancher House Gallery 86 River Rd, Emu Plains, www.penrithregionalgallery.com.au On now until 18 June. Admission free.

Nepean News 9 May 2019 Issue 251

Now Showing at Penrith Regional Gallery: Roy Dalgarno, Labour Day

Nepean News 9 May 2019 Issue 251

ENTERTAINMENT

Unlock the door and light the fire

By KeRRIE DAVIES

Y head is filled with sweet desire... oh the memories of being young - the sun, the surf, the boys, the stern parents... and The Rads! I was still in primary school when my collection of saved 5 and 10 cent pieces finally totalled enough for me to catch a bus to the record shop and buy the record Feel The Heat by The Radiators. Excited beyond imagination, I raced home and hooked up my portable record player and turned it

on full blast. As I stood in the lounge room whipping my long hair around the room as I head-banged to Gimme Head Baby I did not hear the sound of my Nanny entering the room on her walking stick behind me. I did however hear the sound of my brand new record scratching as she swiped the needle off to stop the offensive music, yelling “You ought to be ashamed of yourself! You need your mouth washed out with soap. God will punish you!” I was about 10 years old, and I had absolutely no idea what Gimme Head meant - I just loved the sound of The Radiators’ music. Imagine if she’d heard the lyrics to Fess Song.

So that was the end of my love affair with The Radiators music - at least until I learned how to hide my records and play them when there were no adults around. There aren’t too many Aussies from my generation that didn’t rock to the Rads. Homegrown, with a great beat, churning out hit after hit at a time that was still a fairly conservative period in Australian music - they were a guilty pleasure that we all wanted a little piece of. On Saturday May 11, don’t miss the chance to relive the good ole days as The Rads will be Comin Home to play at the Pioneer Tavern. Three original band members are

still there - Brian Nichol on vocals, Geoff Turner on bass guitar and Fess Parker on lead guitar. Drummer Mark Lucas has been with The Rads since ‘87. One of the greatest things that they have managed to maintain over the decades is their original Aussie pub band style - and they sure are experienced at that - clocking up a whopping average of 200 gigs a year back in the day. So why not rock along to see The Rads on on May 11 - I’ll be there with bells on - so if you see me be sure to pop by and say hello, but don’t offer to wash my mouth out unless it is with a beer or two!

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

We promote the responsible service of gaming & alcohol. alhgroup.com.au

Nepean News 9 May 2019 Issue 251

FINANCE AND REAL ESTATE MATTERS

Ask the Expert - Investment Property Blues or Boom? expectations with the changing market, enabling savvy investments with a seemingly longer-term view. Slightly longer selling times have lured many investors away from the quick-flip property projects to a more lifestyle-geared outlook. A strategic approach to research of the area, potential infrastructure upgrades, school zones, and even an overall quality of life indicate buyers are investing with a significantly longer plan in mind. In addition, select buyers are using the downturn in the market to secure investment properties for personal use. Location, lifestyle, and livability are the trifecta of property purchasing, and combined, present quality long-term portfolio diversity. There is plenty of hope for first homebuyers as well. Downturns in the market present opportunity for buyers purchasing with their hearts. The dream

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

ncertainty in the property market has been an underlying concern for many of our clients this year. Lending restrictions caused by the royal commission and the federal electionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s potential impact on capital gains tax and negative gearing has left many buyers wondering where to turn. Our experience has taught us that whether boom or bust, Sydneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s property market is resilient. Sellers and buyers have competently shifted their

of being a homeowner is now a reality for many buyers, thanks to a slowing market. However, the key thing to remember is that sluggish sale times will not last forever, so it is important for buyers to also purchase with their heads. Consider the potential of the investment overall and the purchase timing, rather than just waiting for the perfect property only to find the market has hit a resurgence. So with changes in the property market have come several silver linings. Opportunities for new homeowners and investment property hopefuls are currently abundant, creating a shift in the market that we have not seen in years. But with opportunity comes responsibility, so establish your strategy and make a move while the market is responsive to buyers. Sharon Mudiman, Licensee and Principal of Bespoke Realty Group (formerly Glenmore Park First National) has been negotiating the sale of property for over twenty-five years in the Greater Penrith Region.

Penrith | Glenmore Park www.bespokerg.com.au 02 4737 9977

SPORT

Penrith District Netballâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s opening season March Past Penrith District Netball Association held its opening day March Past last weekend. Congratulations to the 2019 March Past winners, Twin Creeks Netball Club. Wishing all teams a great season ahead!

SPORT

By CONNER LOWE

ver fancied yourself a camel race? AMA Event Management are bringing it to Sydney residents. Move over horse racing, these camels are providing more than just racing entertainment. They are cute, sassy and ready to strut their stuff to Sydney residents. With an event that will draw thousands of people, you know it’s going to be an event you need to be at this weekend. Monique Annetts, from AMA Event Management spoke about how she wants this to be an annual event and the exciting events that will be hosted on Saturday. “We want Western Sydney and people all over to flock to watch this event every year, we want to put camel racing on Sydney’s radar,” she said. “We also want people to know that camel racing is completely ethical and such good exercise for these beautiful creatures. “Not only are we providing camel racing, but we have also organised mini trotter races, crab races and much more. It will be such a fun night out for the family.” The Camels are coming all the way from Port Stephens. Rod Sansom, one of the camel owners, found his love for animals after growing up around Oakfield Ranch working with camels. The camels are ethically treated in both their north coast living arrangement, their transport and their event life. They race Australia wide, without the use of whips or any other restrictive apparatus. Other activities on the night: • Camel Racing • Mini Trotter Racing (Ponies)

• Novelty Races for Adults • Crab Racing • Moo Poo Lotto • Camel Rides • Pony Rides • Amusement Rides • Market Stalls • Food Vendors • Yard Games

Here are the specifics: Where: Penrith Paceway - Station Street, Penrith Tickets: Get yours on entry (gold coin donation!) Date: Saturday 11th May 2019 Time: 4pm - 9pm

Liberal Candidate announces upgrades to local sporting facilities

Coalition Government will invest more than $199,000 to upgrade a multiple sporting facilities across the Lindsay electorate to encourage physical activity in the region. As part of the nation’s first ‘sports plan’ - Sport 2030 – the Liberals and Nationals have set a goal to reduce inactivity across the nation by 15 per cent by 2030. Minister for Sport Bridget McKenzie said Sport 2030 set a goal for Australia “to be the healthiest and most active nation known for our sporting integrity and success”. “The Community Sport Infrastructure Grant program is an investment in grassroots sporting clubs and organisations that will ensure we get more Australians more active, more often,” Ms McKenzie said. Liberal Candidate for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh said improvements would be made to old and dilapidated facilities at five popular recreational locations across the region in a bid to encourage people to participate in community sport. “This investment will assist with upgrades to Parkes Avenue Sporting Precinct, Roper Road Reserve, Kingswood Sports Club, Cook Park and the Penrith District Netball Association. It’s a huge win for our community,” Ms McIntosh said. The investment will go towards:

• $50,000 for the renewal and upgrade for existing amenities at the Parkes Avenue Sporting Precinct • $50,000 for the renewal and upgrade for existing amenities at Roper Road Reserve • $35,000 to upgrade the turf at Kingswood Sports Club • $15,000 to install behind goal safety fencing at Cook Park • $49,000 to construct shade shelters and amenities for the Penrith District Netball Association “For clubs such as the Nepean Football Club, behind goal safety fencing is needed to protect junior players and families accessing the car park. This will make a real difference to the safety and wellbeing of local families. “Here in Penrith, the installation of shade shelters and inclusive chairs and tables to protect families and players, as well as providing outdoor facilities for broader use is fantastic. “I encourage everyone in Lindsay to be healthy and active in this is a great win for our local area. I look forward to seeing these projects roll out across our sporting clubs. “These are all great announcements for our community. The strong economic management of the Coaltiion Government means upgrades like these can be delivered for our region.” Ms McIntosh said.

Nepean News 9 May 2019 Issue 251

Camel racing - coming to Penrith Paceway

Celebrity ROUND 9

ROUND 10

GCT wes MAN BUL NZW MEL SYD SOU MEL PAN BRI GCT NQC CAN STG CRO CRO pan BRI NEW STG PAR CAN NQC WES NZW SYD BUL PAR SOU NEW MAN May 9 7.50pm

May 10 6.00pm

May 10 8.05pm

May 11 3.00pm

May 11 5.30pm

May 11 7.35pm

May 12 2.00pm

May 12 4.05pm

May 16 7.50pm

May 17 6.00pm

May 17 7.55pm

May 18 3.00pm

May 18 5.30pm

May 18 7.35pm

May 19 2.00pm

May 19 4.05pm

SCORE

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

62 Natalie Ballard - Novus Law Group - 0404 474 084

74 John Veitch - Parramatta Motor Group - 0447 517 711

82 Jeff Lemon - KHP Civil - 0488 342 555

76 Brett McVea - National Locksmiths - 0404 842 170

68 Bec Passlow - Pioneer Tavern - 4736 4647

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

84 Vic Shipley - Powersmart Electrical - 0415 982 093

76 John Thain - GM, Luke Priddis Foundation - 4736 2022

72 Terry ‘Mad Dog” Corbett - St Clair Comets Councillor Benard Bratusa

90 Michael Creed - Thor’s Cafe - 4721 0292 Aaron Tyres - @print

58 Derry O’Donovan - EZR Vend - 0414 254 074

68 Daniel Galea - Adenbrook Homes - 9622 4091

TIPSTERS ROUND 9

ROUND 10

GCT wes MAN BUL NZW MEL SYD SOU MEL PAN BRI GCT NQC CAN STG CRO CRO pan BRI NEW STG PAR CAN NQC WES NZW SYD BUL PAR SOU NEW MAN May 9 7.50pm

May 10 6.00pm

May 10 8.05pm

May 11 3.00pm

May 11 5.30pm

May 11 7.35pm

May 12 2.00pm

May 12 4.05pm

May 16 7.50pm

May 17 6.00pm

May 17 7.55pm

May 18 3.00pm

May 18 5.30pm

May 18 7.35pm

May 19 2.00pm

May 19 4.05pm

SCORE

Mark Geyer - Nepean News columnist

82 Prue Car - Member for Londonderry - 9833 1122

62 Cameron Faico - Property Central - 0434 400 225

BONUS 2 POINTS FOR PERFECT ROUND IN ROUND 7

â&#x2DC;&#x2026;

90 Mark Fitzpatrick - Full Spectrum Services - 0430 220 263

76 Romano Garofali - Nepean Pools - 4722 9201

70 Jim Hill - Nepean Solar - 0425 281 626

72 Kate Radcliffe - Raine & Horne Commercial - 0417 228 587

76 Steve Beard - Select Mortgage - 0403 166 207

82 Aaron Tyers - @print - 4731 5055

78 Brock Shepperd - Wests Harold Matthews Coach

84 Narelle Withers - Bespoke Realty Group - 4737 9977 Nicole Keene - Blink Property - 1300 629 610

Will Wise - East West Building & Kitchens - 9673 2621

84 Alex McKenzie - Future Financial Services - 0414 330 651

Nepean News 9 May 2019 Issue 251

SPORT

PVSF Junior Sportsperson Award By CONNER LOWE

and being in the water makes it all the better. It has also expanded my circle of friends as I have played in nearly every state within Australia and played in New Zealand.” William is currently training six times a week mostly in the city, Homebush, Cabarita and Randwick. He also plays competitively on Sundays and travels all around Sydney. William spoke about his greatest achievement within the sport and his upcoming tour of the United States. “I believe that playing for NSW and winning the Interstate Championships whilst playing for NSW U/14’s where I also won goalkeeper of the tournament, then playing for NSW CHS U/15’s in the Pan Pacific games held in New Zealand last year also ranks high on the list,” he said. “I have been selected to play in the NSW CHS open Water Polo team to play in the Australian all schools competition being held in Sydney in May this year. “I have also been selected in the NSW CHS open Water Polo team travelling to play in Canada and the USA in July of this year. “My main goal is to play for Australia in my age group and opens in the future.” We would like to congratulate William on his award from Penrith Valley Sports Foundation and to continue striding for success in Water Polo for the future.

he Penrith Valley Sports Foundation has awarded William Mather from Glenmore Park the Junior Sportsperson Award for the month of March for his development and skill in Water Polo. William has been involved with Water Polo for seven years and began participating in the sport in primary school for the Blue Mountains Water Polo Club, which is based at Glenbrook. Currently William plays for the Wests Water Polo Club and CHS Water Polo. William has represented NSW Water Polo for the U/14’s where he won goal keeper of the tournament, he represented NSW CHS U/15’s at the Pan Pacific games in New Zealand in July last year and has been selected for NSW CHS Open team to tour Canada and the United States in July this year. William spoke of how he hopes his award can give back to the sport and that his service to the sport is being recognised. “I am happy to receive this nomination as it’s not your traditional sport played in the western suburbs of Sydney and any exposure I can give the sport will only help its development in area,” he said. “I also feel that my hard work and commitment has been acknowledged. “I love playing a physical game

PVSF Sky Encouragement Award By CONNER LOWE

he Penrith Valley Sports Foundation has awarded Raemon Gatehau from Werrington the Sky Encouragement Award for the month of March for his amazing contribution in Rugby League and Athletics. Raemon currently plays Rugby League for St Marys and participates in little Athletics. He has been playing with the St Marys club for two years now and has been involved with Athletics for five years after staring when he was 4-yars-old. Raemon spoke about how his hard training is paying off and how it is making him a better person. “I’m very happy and positive knowing all the training me and my dad did all season really paid off and made me better by building my selfesteem and confidence up,” he said. “I’m grateful for the nomination because I know I train hard to better myself and I love playing sports.” This was Raemon’s first year of making State for little Athletics and he successfully made it into all his events for the Zone Championships

including the 200m, 400m, 800m and long jump. Raemon was awarded the 2019 Sports Boy of the Year for his little athletics club and for the last three years has been Age Champion. Raemon also spoke about what he loves most about playing sport and what he hopes he can achieve in the future. “I love being able to make new friends, having fun and seeing all the other talented kids out there performing well and enjoying it. Mainly I just love to run and sometimes my dad has to tell me to stop because I don’t know when to,” he said. “My dream hopefully is to one day play NRL for the Parramatta Eels and represent my country or play in the NBA because I am very good at basketball too, but I love every single sport there is so to make it in any sport would be a dream come true. Raemon is determined, focused and most importantly shows great sportsmanship. He has so much enthusiasm and consistently encourages all his teammates and competitors throughout training and games. We would like to congratulate

Raemon on his award from Penrith Valley Sports Foundation and to continue his incredible dedication in Rugby League and Athletics.

SPORT By STEWART MOSES

@TheRiffMarn

enrith’s Belvidere Cup winning skipper, Ryan Smith has capped a season to remember, after being named in the NSW Premier Cricket Men’s First Grade Team of the Year at last Friday week’s Premiers Dinner function in Sydney. Smith’s selection caps a season where in his first season as Penrith skipper, took one of one of grade cricket’s youngest-ever first grade rosters to winning the club’s third Belvidere Cup title and it’s first since 1982-83 as well as breaking the club first grade record for most wickets taken in a single season (62 at an average of 18.56), a record held since 1973-74. In further good news for the club, Smith was joined by Penrith female skipper Mikayla Hinkley, who despite having her season cut short by injury, was still able to find her way into the Women’s First Grade Team of the Year, after scoring 471 runs at 47.1 as well as taking 10 wickets at 23.1. For Smith, the recognition is a reflection of the team’s all-round performance in winning the coveted first grade title as well as leading from the front as a team captain. “It’s a nice little bonus to be recognised in that team of the year,” Smith told Nepean News. “But obviously I couldn’t do that without the rest of the team. “I know they took a lot of catches off my bowling which was great.” It’s certainly my best season personally and I don’t know if I can put it down to playing with the guys that are in the side at the moment or being skipper. “Maybe that bit of extra responsibility on myself,

Penrith’s Mikayla Hinkley and Ryan Smith were honoured with Team of the Year selection. Photo: Supplied.

obviously performing for the team as well, might be the keys to my successful season.” Smith says while it is still a surreal feeling being skipper of a premiership-winning team, they know they won’t be afforded the same luxury of flying underneath the radar in 2019-20. “It’s still sinking in winning the Belvidere Cup. I don’t think it has quite sunk in yet but it’s starting to feel a little more real,” Smith replied. “We’re starting to think about the next season and going back-to-back. “Obviously next season is going to be a different ball game where we are no longer the underdogs. In light of Penrith’s success, there will be no shortage of cashed-up Sydney clubs that will be

looking to poach some of the club’s brightest talent. But Smith believes the lure of winning back-toback titles and being such a close-knit team, will enable the club to go into the new season intact. “I think most guys are sticking around. Obviously with our success there will be a few clubs that will be looking to take some of our players, but I’m fairly confident everyone will return to defend the title,” Smith declared. Having won a title in his initial season as skipper, Smith, who is expecting a second child to arrive in October, plans to continue on as skipper for the foreseeable future. “I want to play on as long as I can but my wife may have other ideas,” Smith said. “Hopefully I can get quite a few more years out in first grade before I look to go back down the grades and help out, but end of the day, it’s all dependant on my body and how it holds up at this stage. “I definitely wouldn’t mind being skipper until the end of my career but at the same token I wouldn’t be too upset if we decided to phase in a new skipper over the coming years in order to prepare for the future and get them used to it. “I’ll just have to wait and see what the future holds.” In other news, Penrith’s female skipper Mikayla Hinkley is reportedly eyeing off potential WNCL opportunities with Queensland, after the all-rounder was not named among the 2019-20 contracted players for NSW. A reminder too that Penrith Cricket Club will be hosting its 2018-19 presentation night on Saturday 25th May, at Penrith Panthers. Tickets are just $70 pp for a 3 course meal, with tickets needing to be secured online via www.trybooking.com/BCDFV by Wednesday May 15.

Grassroots funding boost to transform the Chapman Gardens Sports Precinct

he Liberal-National Government will invest $1m into the Chapman Gardens Sports Precinct. The funding, which will be provided to Penrith City Council, will develop the facilities and grounds at Chapman Gardens in Kingswood, including: •The construction of a new amenities building at the Chapman Gardens softball facility; •The upgrade of the existing amenity building at Doug Rennie Field; and •The installation of an irrigation system to the cricket and rugby league field in between DougRennie Field and the softball facility. Liberal Senator for Western Sydney, Senator the Hon Marise Payne, said the overhaul of the Chapman Gardens Sports Precinct would help futureproof the popular sporting hub. “Generations of local sports players have called Chapman Gardens home, it’s as much loved as it well used,” Senator Payne said. “This major funding boost will provide the playing fields and amenities with a much needed facelift to ensure that its fit for purpose well into the future.” Liberal Candidate for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh, who met representatives of the MacKillop

Baseball Club and the Penrith Waratahs JRLFC to discuss their vision for the Precinct, said the funding was a win for grassroots sport. “Chapman Gardens is a part of the DNA of Kingswood and local sporting teams have been passionate and vocal about the need to invest in these fields,” Ms McIntosh said. “This funding package will make a big difference – it will improve playing conditions and create safer, modern facilities for our community to enjoy.

“Many hands make light work so I want to thank all the keen locals, especially Josh Gately and Mitch Sanderson, who have worked with me to get this off the ground.” Mitch Sanderson, Secretary of the Penrith Waratahs Junior Rugby League Football Club, was thrilled with the funding announcement. “We really appreciate the funding which will mean better playing surface upgrades and better amenities for our players,” Mr Sanderson said. “It’s great that Melissa was able to inspect our facilities, listen to

our feedback and then secure this outcome.” President of Penrith Junior Cricket Association, Grant Kean, said “The irrigation upgrade will mean better playing surfaces which not only help out our local cricket teams but will assist the Association in holding representative level cricket at Chapman Gardens.” Josh Gately, President of the Mackllop Baseball Club and a member since the Club’s foundation in 1989, hailed the announcement as a major breakthrough. “Our Club has fought for funding to upgrade our ageing amenity block for a very long time,” Mr Gately said. “This funding will help our players, parents, volunteers and coaches, from 4 years old to 70 years old, to better enjoy our softball diamonds. “I’m thankful that Melissa could see what was needed at the Club and was able to come in with support.” Mayor of Penrith City Council, Cr Ross Fowler, said Council will contribute $630,000 towards the construction of the new amenity block at the Chapman Gardens baseball facility. “Penrith City Council had planned for the upgrade of this facility and the Federal Government’s support will bring this facility online earlier than otherwise planned which will be of great benefit to the whole community.”

Nepean News 9 May 2019 Issue 251

Team of the Year honours for Penrith duo

Nepean News 9 May 2019 Issue 251

SPORT

Knox Awarded Ray Dukes Medal for Outstanding Service By Noel Rowsell

ay Dukes is acknowledged as the finest golfer to ever grace the fairways at Leonay Golf Club and is an instrumental and pivotal figure in the Club’s rich history. In addition to his golfing prowess, Ray also served admirably in many roles, including Secretary Manager and Head Greenkeeper. The ‘Ray Dukes Medal’ was conceived in 2017 and is presented to a Club member in recognition of ‘Outstanding Service’ to the Club. Long-term Golf President Kevin Small was the first recipient in 2017, followed by Sports Club Director Pam Karbe in 2018. This year’s Ray Dukes Medal recipient Les Knox was probably the shortest-priced favourite off all time, having spent much of his adult life in service to the Club on a voluntary basis.

Les Knox with wife and best friend Judith Knox. Photo courtesy of Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

Les moved to Leonay with wife Judith in 1974 and quickly became involved in the Golf Club. Elected as Vice-Captain in 1977, Les became Captain in 1978 then President in 1979.

Les worked in a number of positions in the Golf Club, including President (13 years), Captain (3 years) and various other years as either ViceCaptain, Vice-President or General Committee, along with service on the

Board of the Emu Sports Club. Whilst on the Golf Committee, Les has been tireless in his endeavours on behalf of the Club, with his many roles including Club Delegate to GolfNSW; Junior Development Officer, Match Committee member; Delegate to the NSW Veteran Golfers Association (NSWVGA); managed multiple Pennant teams including Major, Seniors, B&C Grades, Juniors and Mixed. Les was subsequently awarded Life Membership of the Golf Club and, in 2015, received an Administration Award from Penrith Valley Sports Foundation. His current roles include VicePresident of Leonay GC, Club Delegate to GolfNSW; President of the Western Sydney Veteran Golfers Association (WSRVGA); Vice-President of the NSWVGA; Tournament Director of the NSWVGA Stroke-Play Championships and member of the Organising Committee for the Sports Club / Golf Club 50th Anniversary celebrations.

Carruthers takes out Match Play Title By Noel Rowsell

Coby Carruthers in action on the first tee at Leonay GC - photo courtesy of Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

14-year old Coby Carruthers (Jordan Springs) has become the first junior golfer to ever win the Don Watson Handicap Match Play Trophy at Leonay GC, defeating 20-year old Cooper McLean (Glenbrook) 3 & 2 in the Final on Saturday. Thirty-two players qualified for the Match Play Championships, with Coby qualifying in 12th position and Cooper qualifying one spot higher in 11th position. Coby defeated Dean Watson 2-up, Tim Cook 1-up, Zachary Lange 1-up and Bruce Grant 3&2 to qualify for the Final, whilst Cooper defeated Richard Olencewicz 8&7, Peter Walker on the 19th, Wayne Gollard 4&3 and Steve Mallard 2-up. The Match Play Championship has been in existence for the past 50 years and was re-named in honour of Don

Watson in 1989. Club captain Ross Butcher said “Coby is not only the first junior to win the Don Watson trophy but is the youngest player in the last fifty years to win the Handicap Match Play event”. Vice President Les Knox also believes it is the youngest-ever pairing in the Match Play Final in the Club’s history. Coby is currently in Year 9 at St Dominics College and has his sights firmly set on becoming a Golf Professional, once he finishes his schooling. Despite his young age, Coby has already achieved a single figure handicap of 5.4, trains 3-4 times per week in sessions ranging from 1 – 1.5 hours and is working tirelessly on improving his technique, strength and all-round Golf knowledge. Coby’s role model on the Professional Circuit is former World

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#1 Rory McIlroy and his coach is his father Andrew Carruthers. Coby is a member of the Western Sydney Academy of Sport (WSAS) and is among four Academy athletes meeting with Penrith City Mayor Brian Fowler in a ‘meet and greet’ on April 13. Coby is also a member of the Jack Newton Junior Golf (JNJG) Foundation and has played in two JNJG events to date this year, finishing tied for First in the Harvey Norman Week of Golf but out of the placings in the Illawarra Junior Masters. He has recently been selected to compete in the prestigious ‘2019 Regional Academy of Sport North vs South Cup, which is being played at Riverside Oaks GC over 24-26 May. One other western-Sydney Academy player, Miguel Villa (Stonecutters Ridge), will be joining Coby in the ‘North’ team.

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Junior sport: parents and coaches

irstly I would implore all parents and coaches involved in junior sport to watch the following HBO documentary: https:// vimeo.com/108600855 It should provoke some thoughts and opinions in regards to how parents and coaches approach junior sport. What importance should we place on winning in junior sport? Shouldn’t development and enjoyment be our sole focus? The majority of winter junior sporting competitions have or are about to commence. This should be a very exciting time for all children involved. However this enjoyment is often hijacked by a ‘win at all cost’ mentality from some parents and coaches involved at the junior level. Unfortunately this selfish mentality often ruins the dreams and love of sport for young athletes who just want to participate and play with their friends. Coaching should be all about ensuring the players are enjoying themselves and learning as much as possible. If the players are learning and succeeding in the skills and drills they are practicing they are more likely to enjoy their sporting experience and therefore continue to play the game. Training should be structured and designed in order to meet

these simple needs of junior players regardless of the sport in which they are participating. We have all come across the junior coach who treats game day like a professional match. If you are that coach ask yourself: How much control do you have over the result once the game commences? Little, if any. With that said and as hard as it can be, you need to place zero emphasis and importance on the results your team achieves each weekend. The challenge for coaches is to ensure competition and competitiveness is created internally within your team environment. This takes the emphasis off winning and losing each weekend. Ask yourself two simple questions in order to evaluate your training sessions and game results: Did the players enjoy themselves? Are the players learning and improving both individually and as a team? If you can honestly answer yes to both questions you are doing an outstanding job. As a coach, measure yourself on the development and improvement of your players. We have all come across the parent who is constantly discontented with the style of coaching, results of the team and the individual success of their child. The parent who will constantly shout instructions and feedback to the team during games

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

or bark at the referee for certain decisions. If you are that parent ask yourself: What example am I setting for my child and is the behaviour I am displaying appropriate for the junior sport environment? At the junior level it is the growth of individual players that will naturally improve each team. As a parent do not place unrealistic expectations on your child. Make sure you set a good example by encouraging each and every player in the team. Support the players and encourage them to have fun, listen to their coach, respect the referee, learn as much as possible and to place zero emphasis on results. Allow the players to play, the coaches to coach and the referees to referee. As a role model for your child, your job as a parent is to be supportive and set the right example. The focus of parents and coaches involved within junior sport should be to teach young athletes the importance of a strong work ethic, the ability to have fun, to build positive relationships with their team mates and coaches and also their willingness to listen and learn. If these positive habits and behaviours can be instilled within players from a young age the platform is going to be laid for the best possible future both in sport and in life.

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Mt Druitt Rangers claim a valuable point against Sutherland Sharks By CONNER LOWE

t Druitt Town Rangers has fought back to claim an extremely valuable point in a 1-1 draw against Sutherland Sharks at Popondetta Park on Saturday night. On a crisp night at Popondetta Park, both sides got into their work early. Jordan Morfitis burst into the box well for Sutherland Sharks, denied by the huge frame of Mount Druitt goalkeeper, Carlos Saliadarre. Down the other end, Luke Clifford fired one straight at the Sharks keeper, Mitchell Evans. Much of the best play from the home side in the first 45 came through Clifford, Toufic Alameddine and Fabricio Fernandez. The Sharks started to click into gear, Matteo Poljak had an effort touched over, quickly followed by Jeremy Cox’s low effort that was gobbled up Saliadarre, again making life hard for the opposition strikers. Blake Thompson floated a well-directed free-kick that landed on top of the head of Solomon MonahanVaiika but the defender couldn’t crane his neck muscles enough to keep the ball underneath the bar. Raul Beneit Romero had a pair of chances close to the break to put Sutherland Sharks ahead. His initial effort rebounded off Saliadarre before the follow up was swept out for a corner. Right on the break, Fernandez and Alameddine whizzed efforts wide of the post for Mount Druitt Town Rangers. Fernandez bounced an effort wide of the left then Alameddine went high. After the break, Raul Romero went close again but the breakthrough came in the 54th minute. A well bent ball into the area, found the foot of Cox, the striker tapped home, making it 1-nil to the Sharks. On the hour mark, the Rangers had their response.

Fernandez, who has quickly built a catalouge of well-taken goals this season, added another. The striker curled a free-kick around everyone, making it 1-1. The goal sparked some belief for Mount Druitt. Urged forward at every occasion, Alameddine started a counter that ended with Alex Boyadjian, the attacker sent his effort goalbound but it deflected for a corner. Cox had another golden chance in the 84th when Morfitis clipped the ball into his path. Cox got his positioning wrong and scooped the ball into the fencing behind the goal, as the game drifted to the end.

Fernandez had a chance to play the hero again for Mount Druitt. He put them ahead with a delightful chip last weekend in their 3-3 draw, but this week, the effort shaved the post, going agonisingly wide as the teams shared the points. Mt Druitt Town Rangers will now look forward to their match against Hakoah Sydney City East FC where they will be hoping to improve on their performance against the Sutherland Sharks. Mt Druitt and Hakoah FC are currently both sitting on seven points each and will be looking to leap frog one another next weekend. The match will take place on Sunday 12 May at Hensley Athletic Field, kick-off 5pm.

Nepean News 9 May 2019 Issue 251

Coach’s Corner

Brock Shepperd

Nepean News 9 May 2019 Issue 251

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PENRITH PANTHERS

Repeat Sets with Stew Moses

@TheRiffMarn

IS IT SHADES OF 2017 OR 2015 FOR FREE-FALLING PANTHERS? Heading into this round’s crucial return clash against the Wests Tigers at Suncorp Stadium, the Penrith Panthers, one of 2019’s highly rated premiership contenders, have officially hit the wall, after losses over the last fortnight against both South Sydney (22-18) and Canberra (30-12). The two losses now means the Panthers have lost six of their opening eight games and four in succession in what is fast looking like the 2017 season when Penrith went 2-7 after losing against the Brisbane Broncos, ironically at the same venue as this Friday night. But is 2019 instead shaping up as another 2015 season, one in which current coach Ivan Cleary would remember only all too well, when injuries curtailed a season of promise and ultimately cost him his job at the hands of the now departed Panthers Executive General Manager, Phil Gould. With Isaah Yeo and Malakai Watene-Zelezniak side lined and Viliame Kikau all but set to join them despite being an outside chance of playing this Friday night, with Liam Martin already suspended while James Maloney fights a dangerous contact charge at the judiciary (as we go to print on Tuesday night), an out of sorts and now injury-ravaged Panthers side, face a must-win situation this Friday night or run the risk of finishing the round in last place. As it stands no team has ever won the premiership with a 2-6 start so the Panthers are already up against history in looking to rectifying their finals hopes let alone any thought of a top four position that most experts had them a shoe-in for before a ball was kicked in anger. Against Canberra in Wagga Wagga, it was a disappointing result punctuated again by errors despite dominating their opponents for possession (56-44%). The Panthers trailed 14-0 at the break despite a good win behind their back in the first half, and while they marginally lost the second half 1612, the damage was done, not of course helped by game injuries to Yeo, Kikau and Malakai WateneZelezniak. After the game, Ivan Cleary was left to lament the injury toll and suspensions to come out of the game as he faces the real prospect of losing five players for the Wests Tigers clash. “They’re not looking all that great, I can’t elaborate all that much,” Cleary said. “Vili is in a moonboot on crutches, Isaah feels like he dislocated his shoulder and Mal, you saw him out

within a point of a share of top spot in the Canterbury Cup. With all teams having a break this weekend due to the NSW / QLD Residents game, Penrith will be looking to consolidate their top two position when they take on tenth-placed NZ Warriors the following Saturday at Panthers Stadium (12:45pm).

Penrith could be forced into making as many as five changes for this Friday night’s must win Magic Round clash with the Wests Tigers. Credit: NRL Photos.

there, he’s in a fair bit of discomfort. “So, it’s a bit of a war zone in there right now with battered bodies and disappointed boys. “(But) we’ll have 17 guys and we’ll get back on the horse, injuries come and go and it’s going to give somebody else an opportunity, and we’re being really tested right now so we’ll see what we’re made of.” “(Re: Maloney) I didn’t really see it closely, it was one of those ones where he was getting driven sideways with a few guys and he ended up in an awkward position. “Sometimes it can happen like that, certainly wasn’t a pick up, I didn’t think.”

A mixed fortnight for Penrith’s Jersey Flegg side, racking up a big 42-0 win over Souths only to crash the following week against Canberra, 37-12, which has pushed Penrith back into third place ahead of this week’s game versus Parramatta, followed by next weekend’s bye. In Junior Reps News, Penrith’s Harold Matts side came up short against eventual champions, Newcastle in the preliminary final, going down 20-6.

The previous Friday against the Rabbitohs was arguably Penrith’s best performance of the season to date, but the Panthers still lost 22-18 after falling victim to yet another slow start in the first half, trailing 10-2. Panthers coach Ivan Cleary agreed it was his team’s best performance despite the loss. “It was easily our best performance,” Cleary said. “I could see the body language after the game, whilst disappointed, they could see they played alright. There’s been a few other games this year it was a different look. “I feel like it’s something we can definitely build from. I felt we looked likely the whole game but just couldn’t take our chances. “Credit to Souths... it’s a slick operation that they’ve got going. It’s definitely disappointing we didn’t get win but we’ll take a lot out of that. “A lot of players played their best games for us tonight.”

Panthers coach Ivan Cleary has had to make plenty of changes for this Friday night’s clash with the Wests Tigers. Dean Whare and Frank Winterstein are welcome additions, with both returning from injury to replace Malakai Watene-Zelezniak and Isaah Yeo, while Hame Sele’s inclusion at lock forward, sees James Fisher-Harris take Viliame Kikau’s left edge forward spot, with the Fijian international named as a reserve and considered an outside chance to play and Tyrell Fuimaono has been named on the interchange bench in place of the suspended Liam Martin. The club has named the following 21-man squad for the Tigers clash in Brisbane (6pm): 1. Caleb AEKINS 2. Josh MANSOUR 3. Dean WHARE 4. Waqa BLAKE 5. Dallin WATENEZELEZNIAK 6. James MALONEY 7. Nathan CLEARY 8. James TAMOU 9. Wayde EGAN 10. Reagan CAMPBELL-GILLARD 11. Frank WINTERSTEIN 12. James FISHER-HARRIS 13. Hame SELE 14. Sione KATOA 15. Tyrell FUIMAONO 16. Moses LEOTA 17. Tim GRANT 18. Jarome LUAI 19. Kaide ELLIS 20. Dylan EDWARDS 21. Viliame KIKAU Next Friday the Panthers return home to Panthers Stadium where they will take on the NZ Warriors with kick-off at 6pm.

Wins over South Sydney (20-18) and the previously unbeaten Mounties (30-22) has seen Penrith move to

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with Stew Moses

@TheRiffMarn

MIXED NEWS FOR BATTERED AND BRUISED PANTHERS In what is fast becoming a season to forget for supposedly one of the leading premiership contenders after the Panthers meekly surrendered to Canberra 30-12 on a forgettable Saturday afternoon in Wagga Wagga, some mixed news has emerged out of Penrith’s injury woes to come out of that match. Back-rower Viliame Kikau looks to have avoided a serious ankle injury and is considered an outside chance to back up six days later this Friday night against the Wests Tigers in the Magic Round at Suncorp Stadium. But there are still concerns that Isaah Yeo’s dislocated shoulder could be season-ending, even after Panthers confirmed that the back-rower will be out for at least four weeks to undertake a rehabilitation program on a left shoulder which is hoped won’t require that season-ending reconstructive surgery until the end of the season. Winger Malakai Watene-Zelezniak (rib) will also miss this Friday’s match as will back-rower Liam Martin, after being suspended for one match for his involvement in a dangerous throw that also saw James Maloney charged. An additional dangerous contact charge incurred in the same game will see the playmaker plead not guilty as he goes to the judiciary as we go to print. In better news, Dean Whare (hamstring) and Frank Winterstein (knee) will return from injury to bolster a side that could finish the round in last place should Penrith lose and Canterbury win. The match against the Wests Tigers, will also be Reagan Campbell-Gillard’s 100th NRL game since making his debut back in Round 1, 2015 v Canterbury. In the wake of Phil Gould’s departure from the club, much of those responsibilities have been passed on to new General Manager, Matt Cameron, who is widely credited for his work in developing the pathways systems which not only tap into the vast juniors that Penrith have at their disposal but have also spread into Country NSW in recent years as well. It’s little wonder Cameron is held in high esteem given his pathway systems have produced more NRL players in recent times then any other NRL club. Penrith’s horror start to the 2019 season could cost incumbent Blues halves pairing, James Maloney and Nathan Cleary their spots in the

Nepean News 9 May 2019 Issue 251

GOLDEN POINTS

45 45

Injuries to the likes of Isaah Yeo and Viliame Kikau will see Penrith field a weakened side against the Wests Tigers this Friday night. Credit: NRL Photos.

NSW side, with Luke Keary especially, putting plenty of pressure on the under-siege pair. The uncertain playing future of Panthers utility, Tyrone May, continues as the utility remains on bail after facing Penrith Local Court last Wednesday on charges of filming and disseminating footage without consent which involve two female victims. May will return on June 17, after the Local Court magistrate Geoffrey Hiatt formally disqualified himself from the matter, having revealed his father, John Hiatt, had previously served the Panthers board as a director, including six years as deputy chairman until 2015. Penrith may have fielded a decimated Canterbury Cup team after the injuries and charges incurred from the pervious day’s game but one player they were able to welcome back from injury was Jack Hetherington. But having missed several rounds due to injury, Hetherington won’t play next round after this week’s Residents game, after carry overs and priors saw the forward suspended for one week for a grade one dangerous throw. Playing in the lower grades has at least enabled

Dylan Edwards to sharpen up on his goal-kicking. In Penrith’s amazing come-from-behind win over a previously undefeated Mounties side on their home turf, the former NRL fullback kicked five from six including several kicks from the sidelines. Meanwhile, Penrith’s Brian To’o and Matheson Johns stellar start to the season in the Canterbury Cup competition has seen the pair rewarded with selection in NSWRL Residents team to take on the XXXX Queensland Residents team at Redcliffe’s Dolphin Stadium this Sunday. Happy birthday to Royce Simmons who last Thursday much to everyone’s surprise, had in fact turned 60, not 59 as everyone was originally led to believe, after revealing in an interview which can be viewed on the Panthers website that the hooker fibbed about his age when he came to the club. Remember to tune into Hawkesbury Radio 89.9FM each and every Saturday morning between 7-8am, for a hour of all things NRL and especially the Penrith Panthers, with Nicholas Kutjnak and myself on the Hit Up. #PantherPride

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Nepean News 9 May 2019 Issue 251

COVER STORY

Introducing the Emmy Gee award: Kid’s shout! By KeRRIE DAVIES

HOW IT WORKS:

f you’re in a family where the kids play sport, you’d be well aware of the benefits. Sport is great for kids on so many levels; it keeps them healthy and out in the fresh air. It teaches them to be a member of a team with a united goal. They make new friends. They learn how to strive for rewards, how to strategise and even the resilience learned from losing. For the parents accommodating their kids in their various sporting interests, it can be about the loss of a social life with every weekend dominated by kids sport. For parents it is often like morphing into a taxi driver or a juggler when there are several sporting events on at the same time. But because they adore their kids and the benefits far outweigh the juggling act involved, parents do it with a smile on their face, year in year out. Mark Geyer knows his sport. And being a father of five, he knows kid’s sport too. He’s come up with a cracker of an idea and he’s recruited The Pioneer Tavern and Nepean News to partner him in rewarding some extraordinary kids out there and, in turn, give those kids a chance to

Nepean News

reward their parents as well! If you know a child who runs that extra mile, tries that little bit harder or shows amazing team spirit in their sport, it is time to tell MG about it so he can give one of the entrants each fortnight a $100 voucher to take their family out for dinner at the Pioneer Tavern.

1. Tell us in 100 words or less why the child you’ve chosen is a stand-out. Email our editor: kerrie@nepeannews.com.au 2. MG and the Nepean News team will choose one of the entrants and present them with a $100 dinner voucher. 3. The team at the Pioneer Tavern will take a family pic that will feature in the following edition of Nepean News. 4. All chosen entrants will be finalists and be in the running for the special “Emmy Gee” award {yes, that’s an MG pun}. The winner of the 2019 Emmy Gee award will get ANOTHER dinner out, this time WITH Mark Geyer as well - and an award from Nepean News. So coaches, parents, club secretaries, cheering squads - anyone at all really send us your entries to be in the running for Kid’s Shout and ultimately the 2019 Emmy Gee award.

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It’s official - Panthers we have a problem

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t’s official, the Panthers season has officially hit ‘crisis mode.’ After 8 rounds of footy the Mountain Men unbelievably find themselves anchored at the bottom of the competition ladder sitting in 15th spot. What started as the ‘off-season from hell’ has also turned into the ‘on field season from hell.’ Further exacerbating the peril are injuries and suspension to three of Panthers stars last Saturday against Canberra in Kikau, Yeo, and Maloney. With their season on the line against the Raiders, a team in which Penrith have come from behind to beat in their last four meetings, a lot more was expected. But what was delivered was a game in which individuals are obviously struggling with confidence. To have only one forward in skipper James Tamou run for more than 100 metres is concerning. Penrith’s attack looks pedestrian and predictable with the ‘two hit ups for a Kikau’ resembling something from an under 10’s team who continually try and get the ball to the big kid. What now for the Panthers? Well their Canterbury Cup team beat competition heavyweights Mounties last weekend with a depleted team so it’s obviously time to reward those busting their guts. Billy Burns is ready. Jerome Luai is too. I’d even give young Allan Fitzgibbon

a go on the wing. Who? I hear you say. YouTube his name and watch his highlights. Wow! Like the Cronulla Sharks who have been injury ravaged, Penrith need to give some ‘fresh blood’ their chance. Why not? There’s nothing to lose in a season that has gone from bad to worse. Poor: Panthers. Sorry to put the boot in but so much more was expected. Better: Eels. In front of that Bankwest stadium support they are just about unbeatable. Best: Latrell Mitchell. A 10 out of 10 performance against the Tigers has lifted his status in the game dramatically. And another thing.... In this weeks edition we are launching “Kids Shout”. If you’re a coach, parent, grandparent or carer and you think your kid deserves a $100 food voucher donated from the Pioneer Tavern, in 50 words or less send an email to our editor kerrie@nepeannews.com.au and tell us all about what makes your kid so special. Good luck. If you’re on the hunt for a new car go see my mate Toby at Sinclair Hyundai. See you at the game.

MG (random Westie) OAM

47 47 Nepean News 9 May 2019 Issue 251

on the

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