St Clair Erskine Park News June 2019

Federal Member for McMahon Phone (02) 9604 0710

chris.bowen.mp@aph.gov.au JUNE 2019

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ISSUE 42

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Bowen moves to health

By KeRRIE DAVIES

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ABOR sitting MP and former Shadow Treasurer Chris Bowen has been re-elected to represent our electorate of McMahon following the federal election last month.

Mr Bowen has now changed portfolios though, and is the Shadow Minister for Health.

“Medicare is one of Labor’s greatest achievements. Protecting and nurturing Medicare is an important part of Labor’s governing mission,” Mr Bowen said.

“I’m delighted to have been appointed Shadow Minister for Health and looking forward to building on Labor’s tremendous record in health.

“As the longest serving Shadow Treasurer in Australian history, it’s time to hand on the task.

“One of the reasons I was comfortable in asking for a change is my confidence in the abilities of my friend Jim Chalmers. He’ll do a great job and have my full support every day.”

Mr Bowen’s office is based in Fairfield and both St Clair and Erskine Park are part of his electorate.

Greg DAVIES Deputy Mayor

Todd CARNEY East Ward Councillor

Phone 0419 177 259

Phone 0417 762 219 todd.carney@penrith.city

Penrith City Council

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From the Editor’s Desk

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by Kerrie Davies

he bitterly cold winter nights are starting to set in now, and it won’t be long before the old ice pic is needed to get your car out of the driveway each morning.

As you jump in your nice warm bed tonight and lay back on your warm fluffy pillows, switching on your electric blanket if you have one, or pulling the ultra thick doona right up to your eyeballs so that only your eyebrows feel cold, spare a thought for our homeless people.

In these cold conditions, they are likely sleeping on cold concrete or grass, with a piece of cardboard for warmth.

And if you’ve gone out and purchased new, bright, ten-inch thick bedding for the winter, how about donating the old bed covers to a collection point for our homeless.

Or the next time you go shopping and spot gloves and beanies for a few dollars each, if you can spare it why not purchase a pair or two for someone who can’t afford them?

Thick winter jackets, beanies, gloves, socks and tinned hot meals are all things that will come in handy to those who don’t have the comfort we have to come home to.

There are so many local charities across our large region that will pass on the goods for you, and it can really make a difference to someone’s life – particularly at this time of year.

If ever there’s a time where a kind gesture is appreciated by those in need, it is during the coldest months of the year. #ProjectWarmth Winter Appeal is underway right now in Penrith. Read more about how you can help on page 7.

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HANK YOU for helping Australian babies in need. An overwhelming 1,681 nappies were donated to our collection point.

Together we are helping to keep little bottoms clean and giving families in crisis one less thing to worry about.

A huge thank you to all those who generously donated to The Nappy Collective!

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Apprentices doing it tough encouraged to apply for $15,000

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ember for Mulgoa Tanya Davies has encouraged first year apprentices doing it tough to apply for the 2019 Bert Evans Scholarships.

The Scholarship, which is named in honour of the late Bert Evans AO, provides first year apprentices that are experiencing financial and personal hardship with $15,000 over three years to assist them complete their training.

Tanya Davies said that the scholarships would make a real difference to apprentices that are working hard to undertake training and contribute to the community.

“These scholarships are another great example of how the NSW Government is supporting our first year apprentices to get the skills they need to have successful careers.

I encourage any local apprentice that is in need of a helping hand to consider applying for one of these great Scholarships” Tanya Davies said.

Member for Skills and Tertiary Education, Dr Geoff Lee, said that the scholarships were a great way of ensuring that NSW continues to have a strong and skilled workforce.

“We know how important apprentices are to the future of our industries and these scholarships will help hard working apprentices who are struggling finish off their training and have fulfilling careers.

Applications are open until 19 July 2019, and apprentices who start their training between 1 March 2018 and 19 July 2019 are eligible to apply.

To lodge an application, visit www.training.nsw. gov.au/bert_evans_scholarships or phone 13 28 11.

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Winter warmth for those less fortunate

By KeRRIE DAVIES

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he #Project Warmth Winter Appeal was launched recently to reach out to the Penrith community and get them to help the homeless and underprivileged people in our local area.

The project is sponsored by Penrith CBD Corporation, Stuart Ayres MP, ANZ Bank and the Creative Fringe.

The first part of the concept is to encourage the people of Penrith to donate items for comfort packs; such as beanies, scarfs, gloves, socks and jackets and drop them off to the Penrith CBD Corporation.

One community member, Elizabeth, saw the promotion and alerted some contacts she had at Best and Less Penrith. The good folk from the Best and Less store didn’t hesitate to donate.

“They have been incredibly generous, donating warm clothing, blankets, socks and underwear,” Elizabeth said.

People can also help stock up the Penrith Community Kitchen so that they can continue to provide hearty hot meals by donating canned food items.

Have some time up your sleeve? How about taking part in the Creative Fringe’s Think Outside

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The Square challenge, and knit a square that will contribute to a warm blanket for somebody sleeping rough.

Deputy Mayor Greg Davies said that by banding together the community could really make a difference to the lives of those less fortunate.

“If everyone that could afford a beanie, scarf, socks, blankets or jacket spent, say $20, that would make a huge difference to someone this winter that doesn’t have access to those items,” Cr Davies said.

Penrith CBD Corporation CEO Gai Hawthorne said the winter appeal helps not only homeless people but many under privileged in our community.

“Penrith Community Kitchen continues to offer a hot meal at lunch each day of the week and Westcare offers relief packs, clothing and support. We need you to help us deliver these services,” Gai said.

“The cost of living is increasing and once food and medicine is purchased many families can’t afford the basic warm items needed.

“The Creative Fringe is asking everyone to knit a 20 x 20 square, go to their website www. thecreativefringe.com.au for further details.

“Together we make a difference, you may only be able to afford one scarf - but that helps someone cold during winter and that is a big difference,” Gai said.

400 trees in St Marys

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By KeRRIE DAVIES

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ENRITH Council’s Living Places St Marys project will see around 400 street trees planted on nature strips across the southern section of St Marys during May and June. The trees are part of Council’s Cooling the City Strategy, and will improve the streets’ appearance, while providing much needed shade in summer.

Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM said street trees are a valuable long term asset for our community and it is important to plant the right tree in the Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM with the Moy family of St Marys who are right place. excited about receiving their street tree.

“We want to help create more beautiful and vibrant streets for our local residents written to residents who will have a street tree to enjoy. Not only will they look even better, they’ll planted in front of their property. This has received be more liveable too, helping to reduce the extreme an overwhelmingly positive response, with some local families have even volunteered to help look heat we experience with our local summers.”

“The local environment also benefits through after their new trees.

Council has engaged a company called Summit the capture of air pollution and stormwater runoff, and local birdlife will appreciate the new habitat. to do the tree planting. As part of the process, the Trees have also been shown to improve mental trees will receive formative pruning and will be wellbeing by increasing people’s connection with watered regularly for a period of 12 months.

This is a pilot project, and Council hopes to nature and improving the health of the community by encouraging people to get outside and be more continue this work in other suburbs.

For more information about this project visit active” Cr Fowler said.

Council has met with the local community and yoursaypenrith.com.au/LivingPlacesStMarys

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Western Sydney crooks to get cctv close-up

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mall businesses and community groups in western Sydney are set to put the spotlight on crime, with applications now open for NSW Government CCTV grants.

The $5 million program, which was first announced by Premier Gladys Berejiklian in February this year, will help more than 1000 businesses and organisations upgrade their security.

Attorney General Mark Speakman said the initiative demonstrates the Government’s ongoing commitment to local community safety.

“Criminals will have fewer places to hide, with more CCTV sending a clear message that if you choose to do the wrong thing, you will be detected and caught,” Mr Speakman said.

“We also want to increase community confidence for both business owners and local residents across the region, by cracking down on anti-social behaviour to make their suburbs even safer.”

Minister for Police David Elliott said the footage captured will be a vital investigative resource for local police to help catch criminals.

“Aside from the evidentiary benefits, CCTV footage also helps detectives gather intelligence while acting as a general deterrent to help reduce the likelihood of further crime,” Mr Elliott said.

Eligible small businesses and community groups can now apply for up to $5000 in funding, with applications to be assessed by the NSW Police Force and the NSW Department of Justice.

Gina Field, Managing Director of Nepean Regional Security has been in the security business for 31 years and she welcomes the announcement.

“I welcome and commend the NSW Government for the safety package initiative to enhance the feeling of being safe in areas,” Gina said.

“Security is a very important part of our lives now and we need to embrace the future of cameras in a collaborative way in conjunction with licensed security installers, physical security presence and Police services.

Gina acknowledged that while CCTV may not actually stop crime, they do act as a deterrent and can assist in the apprehension of offenders.

“In my experience cameras have reduced and solved crimes in various areas, however people need to be mindful that cameras are data (time, date, stamp) gathering pieces of equipment and may reduce crime, but may not actually stop the crime,” she said.

“Over Christmas the small business yard across the road from our security office was broken into and through our cameras the offenders were able to be identified, arrested and had the stolen merchandise returned to the business owner.”

Urethral obstruction

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By Dr Richard Miller

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esterday was very unusual for us…two urethral obstructions in a day…one in a cat and one in a dog (and a bum obstruction…but we’ll save that for another day!).

Both cases involved the formation of a crystal called Struvite in the urine within the bladder. In both cases the crystals had clumped together forming a ‘stone’ in the dog and a ‘plug’ in the cat, which had then led to obstruction of their urethras…the little tube leading from the bladder to the outside.

Urethral obstruction is a very serious and rapidly life-threatening situation…blockage of urine flow will quickly lead to kidney failure. Luckily, we were able to catheterise them and relieve their obstructions early enough to avoid this and they should both make a full recovery.

Also, very luckily for Thor, the big tough American Staffy, we didn’t have to make him into Thelma, and for Maverick, the big tough Tom Cat, we didn’t have to make him into Mavis, with ‘sex-change’ surgery Mamre ROAd

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which becomes necessary if the obstruction can’t be moved.

We don’t know all the reasons why some cats and dogs make crystals in the urine, but in most we think it is due to diet, and, eating too much ‘dry food/ kibble’ in particular. Special diets are the best way of preventing recurrence in both.

Warning signs are frequent attempts to urinate and straining with only small amounts of urine passed. It is rare in dogs but very common in cats. If you see your cat or dog doing this, we recommend you seek veterinary care for them asap.

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Three big cheers for our valuable volunteers V olunteers from all walks of life will be celebrated by the NSW Government as part of the Premier’s Volunteer Recognition Program.

To coincide with the beginning of National Volunteer Week, Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services Gareth Ward opened nominations this week, for NSW residents to nominate a tireless volunteer in their community.

“Volunteers are the backbone of our society, and without their contribution our communities would not thrive like they do,” Mr Ward said.

“The Premier’s Volunteer Recognition Program celebrates all volunteers – from students selflessly working with charities to veterans who’ve dedicated decades of their lives to causes close to their heart.”

In NSW, more than 2.1 million people volunteer, contributing a combined 240 million hours of their time each year, valued at $5 billion to local communities.

There are four categories open for nominations under the program, including: • People with a lifetime of volunteering experience – over 40 years; • People with over 25 years of volunteering

Nepean Therapy Dogs is a local registered charity. The work of the volunteers and the dogs is a great comfort to many.

experience; • Significant volunteering at any age; and, • Student volunteering.

Since 2015, 28,600 volunteers have been recognised under the program for their contribution.

“It’s so important for all of us to acknowledge this invaluable work, and I urge all NSW residents to nominate someone who’s making a difference,” Mr Ward said.

The Premier’s Volunteer Recognition Program is part of the NSW Government’s Volunteering Strategy 2016-2020.

To nominate a volunteer or to find out more about the program, visit:www.volunteering.nsw.gov.au.

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Don’t waste water

By GREG DAVIES

I love a sunburnt country A land of sweeping plains Of rugged mountain ranges OF DROUGHTS AND FLOODING RAINS

Familiar, yes however the flooding rains are still some time away it seems but the droughts are here, so now it’s time to rethink the use of our most precious resource, water.

With the dam now at around 50 per cent, Sydney Water has introduced Stage 1 Restrictions. The restrictions are not that onerous and relate to using a bit of common sense.

Don’t use the hose to wash the driveway, use a broom; when washing your car use a hose with a trigger nozzle and don’t water the lawn with a hose before 10am and after 4pm.

That’s just a summary and as I said its pretty much common sense. You can probably think of more ways to assist the restrictions with a little imagination.

Remember, however, if you break the rules you will be contributing to the government’s coffers as the Sydney Water rangers will be patrolling and issuing fines. Ignorance is not a valid excuse either, so make sure you are aware of what is and what isn’t allowed.

Let’s all just “Do The Right Thing” For more information on restrictions visit the Sydney Water website.

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Big shout out to MG’s pick - Logan

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By KeRRIE DAVIES

O

UR first finalist in the Emmy Gees - kid’s shout - is Logan Wade from Erskine Park.

We received dozens of entries and when Mark Geyer read the letter written by Logan’s mum, Bree, he immediately declared the winner.

“That’s exactly what we are after. There’s our first winner!” MG exclaimed.

Logan plays footy for St Clair Comets and has done now for five years. As he is only nine, seems he strapped the boots on as soon as he was allowed on the field!

Logan’s mum Bree said she cried when she received the news that he was the winner. It is clear she is very proud of her son.

Bree Wade’s letter: “I’m writing to you to nominate my son Logan for “ kid’s shout” Logan is my 9 year old son who I feel is a standout because of his determination to live his life, passion for league and compassion for his teammates and the teams he plays against.

Three years ago Logan was diagnosed with clonic mytonic epilepsy. Unfortunately doctors have found it difficult to control. Logan has failed five different medications and currently takes three different types of medication - two daily.

Despite often feeling lethargic, nothing stops this boy from doing what he loves.

Every Saturday he takes the field with his team, always the first one to high five any player that scores or does well and shows determination.”

Congratulations Logan, you get to take your family out for a scrumptious meal at the Pioneer Tavern, it is your shout!

Please send your entries for the Emmy Gees kid’s shout to kerrie@nepeannews.com.au

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MG on the mark

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w i t h M A RK G EYER

State against state, mate against mate

 “Pardon you want to fish where”?

 The great Artie Beetson in 1980

t’s hard to believe that State of Origin turns 40 next year! What an amazing concept it has been.

In 1980, as a 12 year old, I asked my dad if I could stay up ‘late’ and watch this new interstate competition.

“You sure can mate,” he replied.

Until that game in 1980 I hadn’t given rugby league games between NSW and QLD much thought. NSW always seemed to flog them and the crowds were relatively poor.

Game 1 in 1980 would change that forever. As immortal Arthur Beetson lead his QLD team out onto Lang Park those in attendance and at home on the lounge were intrigued.

At 36 surely ‘Big Artie’ was way past his best?

And surely this would be merely another walk in the park for NSW? Uh uh. Actually far from it.

My early confusion of teammates playing against each other was quickly cleared up when Mick Cronin ran the ball and his teammate from Parramatta, Artie Beetson smashed him. And then threw in a late uppercut for good measure.

“Dad, what’s going on here, how can two teammates be fighting each other?” I asked, “They are calling it State against State, Mate against Mate for a reason son, this is something I’ve never seen before,” dad exclaimed, “And how bloody good is it,” he threw in with raptures.

From that moment I wanted to play State of Origin.

QLD won that very first match 20-10, and it wasn’t until 1982 that the 3 game series was introduced, with QLD winning the first 3 series until Steve ‘Turkey’ Mortimer’s Blues won our first in 1985.

Four years later in 1989 I got my first taste of it.

And it was everything and MORE it was advertised as.

As we round the bend and head into its 40th year, State of Origin has never been bigger or better.

Just when you think you’ve seen it all, think again.

It continues to serve up monumental moments and images, one I was lucky enough to be involved in involving a “King” :-) Who will write their own chapter of origin history in this years series?

Chances are it happened on Wednesday night.

Chances are it will continue to happen long after rugby league’s major show piece hits its 40th, 50th and 60th birthday.

State of Origin is well and truly mate against mate state against state, it’s also the gift that keeps on giving!

See you at the game.

I

MG (random Westie) OAM

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