Western Weekender February 6

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weekender the western FRI 6 FEB 2015 • Issue 1189

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WEDDING FEATURE

Our building boom

Are you planning the biggest day of your life? p.28-30

Stadium decision looms Penrith remains the frontrunner for new 35,000-seat sports venue TROY DODDS

Joe Hockey visits Jordan Springs p.13

Latest sporting champion p.40 SPORT Codes collide as Panthers and Wanderers come together p.38

@troydodds

P

enrith is set to know before the March 28 election if it will be the home of a major new sports stadium.

The area is said to be the frontrunner for the new stadium, which would be the new home of the Penrith Panthers NRL team and open up the door for other sporting franchises.

The 35,000-seat venue would most likely be built on the current Penrith Stadium site if Penrith was to be named as the location.

“The State Infrastructure Strategy clearly highlights the need for reform in our stadium network and highlights an east, a centre and a west precinct for stadiums and that is consistent with the Stadia Strategy,” said Sports Minister and State Penrith MP, Stuart Ayres.

“We’re working through that and most importantly for the first time in a very long time, we have the funds to deliver it.”

The State Government is to invest in upgrades to Allianz Stadium in the city and will decide between ANZ Stadium and Parramatta Stadium in terms of a major upgrade.

That means a decision on a new stadium in western Sydney does not come down to a battle between Penrith and Parramatta like many had anticipated.

“We’ve got question marks over what we do with Sydney Olympic Park and ANZ versus Parramatta, and then in greater western Sydney it’s about growth opportunities,” Mr Ayres said.

Story continues on » p. 10

Penrith MP Stuart Ayres says a decision on a new stadium will be made before the election

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Crime

the western weekender » Friday 6 February 2015

Neighbourhood Watch set to return Popular concept fizzled out, but now police hope to bring back program that helps prevent crimes KATHERINE TWEED

@ktweed_

n a bid to get the public more involved in the fight against crime, NSW Police are bringing back the Neighbourhood Watch concept.

Neighbourhood Watch encourages local residents to work closely with police by keeping an eye on things in their own neighbourhood and reporting any suspicious behaviours or activities.

In turn, it is hoped that the system will help to prevent and reduce crime in local areas.

“The advantage for us is that a lot of the time there is a lot of information out there in the community that we don’t know about. People will see cars, they’ll see people, they’ll see suspicious things and very often it is the case that it is just not reported because either they don’t think it is important enough or people think the police aren’t interested enough,” said Detective Sergeant Stuart Gordon of Penrith Police.

Ropes Crossing resident Sheldon Ross has been part of an unofficial neighbourhood watch system with a number of the residents in his street.

Knowing the value of having neighbours

I

that look out for each other, the residents started their own group where they keep an eye on things, reporting suspicious behaviours to the police and notifying each other if things are out of place.

Mr Ross said that there has even been a case in the street where the vigilance of the residents led to the arrest of a person who was attempting to break into cars.

“We think that by looking after other people’s needs and they look after ours, we protect not only our own property but also our environment,” Mr Ross said.

Mr Ross, who remembers the days when the official watch was instated and the uproar it caused when the system fizzled out, said that he is very happy to hear that the police are hoping to bring the official Neighbourhood Watch back.

“I think the Council and the police realise that with the manpower stretched, they can’t cover all the blind spots that you and I can see on a daily basis,” Mr Ross said.

“Particularly in communities like this one it would really work. This is a really community aware area, especially my street at least, as people watch out for each other. It makes it a better place.”

NSW Police are holding a Neighbourhood Watch Information Day in Surry Hills on Thursday, February 19.

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Siege survivors have every right to sell their story to the media This weekend, both the Seven and Nine networks will air interviews with survivors of the siege that took place in Sydney’s Martin Place last December.

The tragedy saw two innocent people lose their lives at the hands of a madman and captivated the entire country.

Understandably, opinions are split on whether or not the networks should be airing these interviews, and more specifically, whether the survivors should be getting paid to tell their story.

Former Victorian Premier Jeff Kennett made headlines earlier this year when he said it wasn’t “morally right” that the media pay for the story, or that the survivors profit from the tragedy.

Even in my own household, there’s been a debate about this topic.

My view? I’ve got no problem with the media paying for the story, nor have I got a problem with the survivors receiving money to tell it.

Let’s deal with the media first.

Every day, the media is bashed from pillar to post about everything from story choices to the quality of journalism to the very nature of the job they’re doing.

I myself have been known to be critical of some organisations, including The Daily Telegraph, for the D-Grade stories that often pop up on their website.

Others, too, have become lazy and more interested in click-baiting than actual journalism.

Last week The Daily Mail’s lead story was, I kid you not, a piece on Karl Stefanovic mowing his lawn.

The common comment from those who wage war on some of the bigger media outlets is “please cover some real news”.

On Sunday night, Seven and Nine will air interviews stemming from one of the biggest stories Australia has seen in the last decade.

It doesn’t get much more real than that.

Yes, Seven and Nine have paid big bucks to

TROY DODDS @troydodds

In life, we all have a story to tell

make it happen and yes, both are commercial organisations. From a purely business point of view, they know that any money spent will be returned to them by way of advertising revenue.

But from a raw journalism point of view, it answers the call of those who are critical of today’s media for their lack of serious and in depth news coverage.

Not surprisingly, however, the keyboard warriors are never happy.

The same people who complain about a story such as Karl Stefanovic mowing his lawn will also complain about real journalism such as the interviews with the siege victims.

Sometimes, and certainly not all the time, media organisations need to pay for stories to deliver the journalism that the public should and does demand.

As for the survivors, not for one minute can I imagine what it was like to sit in that cafe for hours on end, not knowing if their lives would end on that day.

In life, we all have a story to tell.

For some, that story is more extraordinary than others, and at this point in time, the story the survivors have to tell is one that the nation wants to hear. Should they wish to sell that story, I haven’t got a problem with it.

After all, unless they went to the ABC or held a media-wide press conference, somebody else will profit from their story anyway.

What happened inside that cafe is their story. It happened to them, not Jeff Kennett, not us.

They therefore have the right to do whatever they feel comfortable with in relation to that story.

It is exceptionally sad that two people lost their lives in the Sydney Siege.

For those who survived, the experience they went through will have changed them forever.

Let’s not begrudge their right to get something back out of that tragedy.

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Council

Events such as NRL Grand Finals and Olympics could be shown DALE DRINKWATER

@daledrinkwater

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Councillor Tricia Hitchen at Judges Park, Penrith. Photo: Melinda Jane

Phone: (02) 9833 2913 Address: Shop 1/159 Queen St, St Marys 2760 Email: mulgoa@parliament.nsw.gov.au Mail: PO Box 138, St Marys NSW 1790

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ocals will be able to come together as a community and watch movies, sporting events and ceremonies for free after Penrith Council identified several locations for potential ‘live’ sites.

Seven sites were nominated including Regatta Park in Emu Plains and Judges Park in Penrith, to provide the city with an opportunity to watch iconic events and movies on a big outdoor screen.

The success of Parramatta’s early morning live screening of the Western Sydney Wanderers match in the Asian Champions League Final prompted Council to enable Penrith to do the same, allowing locals to gather and celebrate together in a public space.

Councillor Tricia Hitchen initially requested the report to nominate potential sites in November last year.

“I was disappointed that we didn’t have anything for the Wanderers because I think that was a big chance for Penrith to get on board,” she said.

Cr Hitchen insists there’s enough facilities at Judges Park “to do something amazing” now Council has approved permanent power for the site.

“I really want it done before ANZAC Day,

have it ready for the Gallipoli ceremony, to mark 100 years. Having a big screen for ANZAC Day would be amazing and I think Penrith deserves that,” she said.

“Once you’ve got power, you’ve already got toilets and the car park, and surely we could organise some coffee carts up there for early in the morning.”

Council expects to hold events such as Cinema in the Park, Carols by Candlelight, NRL and A-League grand finals, Gallipoli centenary services and the Olympics with pre-show entertainment such as bands or face-painting for children.

Cr Hitchen believes Judges Park could even be a permanent ‘live’ site due to its central location, but also said a developed Nepean River site could come into consideration.

“Judges Park is central but we’ve got this big $10 million master plan where we are going to build on the river, with restaurants and cafes,” she said.

The ‘live’ site will have a trial run on Saturday, February 21 at Regatta Park with a screening of the movie ‘Madagascar 3’ from 8pm.

Depending on its success, Council will then consider future ‘live’ sites events.

Do you think live sites in Penrith are a good idea? Tell us your view by emailing news@westernweekender.com.au or call us on 4722 2998.

Tanya Davies MP Member for Mulgoa a

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the western weekender » Friday 6 February 2015

Council to trial new ‘live’ sites

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Friday 6 February 2015 « the western weekender

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State Election 2015

Stuart Ayres declares it’s “game on” Exclusive: Election campaign well and truly underway as Penrith MP says he deserves another term TROY DODDS

@troydodds

espite federal issues dominating the political discussion in Australia, State Penrith MP Stuart Ayres has declared it’s “game on” for the March 28 State Election as he readies for battle against Labor’s Emma Husar and veteran Jackie Kelly, who is standing as an Independent in the seat.

On numbers alone, Mr Ayres holds the seat of Penrith comfortably. He claimed it by a mammoth margin in the wake of the Karyn Paluzzano scandal at a by-election in 2010 and was returned comfortably in 2011.

But as the Queensland election last weekend showed, nobody is safe when it comes to a voting public that has never been more ruthless or willing to swing the axe.

In an extended sit-down interview with the Weekender, Mr Ayres spoke openly about his tenure as Penrith MP and his plans for the future.

D

» On the March 28 election “It’s definitely game on now. The focus is very much on communicating to the people of Penrith and more broadly NSW

Stuart Ayres sat down with the Weekender last week. Photo: Melinda Jane

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» On Barry O’Farrell “I obviously had a very close relationship with Barry and did a lot of work through the by-election with him, so to lose a leader is never an easy thing, but the transition... has a lot to do with the fact that the core of our government was really strong,” Mr Ayres said.

“We’re a government that’s focused on the key issues of health, education, law and order and infrastructure, and I think that meant that even though we changed the leader, none of the key portfolios really missed a beat and that allowed people to establish confidence in the new leadership.” » On Mike Baird “I think he’s just a natural – a natural leader, a natural bloke,” Mr Ayres said.

“He’s as comfortable in the Board room of a major bank as he is in the front bar of the Australian Homes Hotel in High Street, Penrith. I think that’s the type of person that NSW is looking for. He’s incredibly intelligent and he inspires you to work hard.” » On Victoria Bridge “It was always going to be a difficult

build – the river has a unique topography, we had heritage issues, gas lines and a fire that nobody expected that probably cost us between six and nine months, we would be well into the construction phase right now had the Log Cabin fire not happened,” he said.

“Overwhelmingly I get nothing but positive messages. There have always been people who have questioned design and the layout and people in close proximity to the bridge who are having their general environment change, but I have very very strong support for a safe pedestrian crossing.

“We’ll get to the construction definitely in the first half of this year.”

Mr Ayres points out that a lot of the construction work will be done off-site with large sections of the bridge transported to the location. » On Bart Bassett and ICAC “From my perspective, we haven’t really been too focused on that in these three seats (Penrith, Mulgoa and Londonderry) and the main reason for that is that Bart had already made a decision that he was going to contest another seat anyhow,” Mr Ayres said.

“We very early made the decision to pre-select a candidate [in Londonderry] – Bernard Bratusa put his hand up and pretty much from that day our focus has been Tanya Davies, Stuart Ayres and Bernard Bratusa working as a team together to make sure that the broad Penrith region all gets the focus and attention it deserves.” » On juggling his ministerial roles with his Penrith duties “It’s always been Penrith first,” he said.

“The people of Penrith elected me to

the Parliament to represent them and I’ve never wavered or deviated from that. I’ve been incredibly privileged to be able to advance into the cabinet, but I think that’s been Penrith’s win. I sit around that table thinking that I’m Penrith sitting around the Cabinet table, I don’t consider it as Stuart Ayres sitting there.

“This election will still be decided on local issues.” » On electricity privatisation “The work we want to do around electricity does two things,” Mr Ayres said.

“It allows us to reinvest the value of the electricity network that we’re leasing into much needed infrastructure.

“The other message is the really clear message around network costs. Electricity leasing is not just about infrastructure, it’s about cheaper electricity prices.”

Mr Ayres points to Victoria as a positive example of successful privatisation.

I’ve been incredibly privileged to be able to advance into the cabinet, but I think that’s Penrith’s win

» On why you should vote for him “We’ve repaired the NSW economy – we were last, now we’re first. The opportunity for young people to get a job in this state is significantly better than what it was under Labor,” he said.

“We’ve got a clear plan for how we can invest and improve people’s daily lives, whether it’s investments in health, making our schools better, or making our roads and transport better. We’ve got a plan – we know what we’re going to invest in and we know how we’re going to fund it.

“I think that’s a contrast to the other side that I don’t think is ready to govern yet. I don’t think they’ve demonstrated that they’ve got the capability or the skillset to do that, and I don’t think they’ve got a funded plan.”

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7 the western weekender » Friday 6 February 2015

our really clear plan to continue the work that we’ve done,” Mr Ayres said.

“I often feel like we’ve built a really solid foundation, but now’s the time to build a house.

“All of the things that we needed to do – repair the State’s Budget, start to look after vulnerable people, turn the infrastructure dollars into real activity – is happening, and we want to really see those projects through and then get into the next wave of things as well.”

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Police snapshot Kemps Creek: Man fined over illegal dog-breeding business

Werrington: Police search for car after boy approached

Police found an illegal dog-breeding business while executing a search warrant at a home in Kemps Creek and as a result have fined a man $12,700. In early January detectives were executing an unrelated search warrant at the location and discovered a large number of dogs at the premises. They allege that those dogs were part of an illegal dog-breeding business being operated by a 41-year-old Rebels OMCG nominee. A total of 45 separate offences were detected under the Companion Animals Act and the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act. These included 32 counts of ‘companion animal not registered as required’, 10 counts of ‘not identify companion animal as prescribed’ and three offences relating to building and developing without consent.

Police are hoping that the public can assist them after a six-year-old boy was approached by an unknown person in Werrington last week. At about 7pm on Thursday, January 29, the boy left a backyard in Impala Avenue and walked to the roadway at the front of the house. There, police were told that he was spoken to by a man, who was the front passenger of a small red hatchback before he and the driver got out of the car. The incident was witnessed by a relative of the boy who called him back inside and called police. Police searched the area but were unable to locate the men or the vehicle and are calling on the public to assist. The car is described as a small red hatchback with black zig zag patterns on the bonnet.

Leonay: Police charge man over stealing offences

Penrith: Woman tried to steal cosmetics from supermarket

A man has been arrested and charged over a number of alleged steal from motor vehicle offences and a break and enter offence in Leonay from December last year. On Wednesday, January 28, police arrested a 31-year-old male in St Marys following a short backyard foot chase. He was found in possession of a number of prescription drugs and cannabis, and was taken to Penrith Police Station where he was interviewed. Through a number of inquiries police identified that the man was allegedly involved in the incidents from last year. He was charged with two counts of ‘stealing’ and one ‘break, enter and steal’ offence.

A woman has been issued with a Criminal Infringement Notice worth $300 in fines after she was caught allegedly stealing nearly $200 worth of cosmetics and other items from a local store. Police arrested the 30-year-old woman on Monday, February 2, at a supermarket on Station Street, Penrith. She was issued with an on the spot $300 Criminal Infringement Notice and the property was recovered. A Criminal Infringement Notice may be issued for a range of offences, including a single stealing of property up to $300 in value, offensive behaviour and failing to comply with police directions.

Away from Penrith but never away from real estate IAN AHEARN RETURNS TO HIS HOMETOWN David Turner, Principal of Ray White Penrith is proud to announce the return home of licensed real estate agent, Ian Ahearn After 18 successful years selling real estate in the Nepean region Ian accepted real estate roles for leading agencies in New Zealand and Queensland.

Ian is looking forward to serving his many previous clients and customers once more and invites all homesellers who are thinking of selling their home or investment property to contact him for sound advice and strategies that will maximise their end sale price.

Ian decided to return to Ray White, Penrith as he had previously worked with them for many years before relocating to New Zealand and found that their brand, office support and team environment will complement the level of support and service he expects for his many past and future clients and customers.

If you would like to profit from Ian’s experience please contact him on: Ian can be contacted on:

0457 483 610 or ian.ahearn@raywhite.com 3/308 High Street Penrith NSW 2750 WW15706

9 the western weekender » Friday 6 February 2015

PENRITH 14th ANNUAL HISTORY CONFERENCE

THE MAKINGS OF A CITY: FROM GUARD HOUSE TO GALLIPOLI

NEWS

Tickets $50 per person

For more information please phone 4732 7891 or email researchservices@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

CONTACT US ADMINISTRATION Penrith Office Civic Centre, 601 High Street.

Opening Hours: 8.30am–4pm. Mon–Fri. St Marys Office Queen Street Centre, 207–209 Queen Street.

Opening Hours: 8.30am–4pm. Mon–Fri. Switchboard Open: 8.30am–5pm. Mon–Fri. P: (02) 4732 7777 F: (02) 4732 7958 Write to: PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751.

E: council@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

SERVICES Waste Hotline: Freecall 1800 734 735 Illegal Dumping: Contact the EPA hotline on 131 555 and ask for the RID Squad (Regional Illegal Dumping Squad).

Graffiti Hotline: Freecall 1800 022 182

MEETING DATES Council Meetings 9 February 2015 – 7pm (Policy Review Committee) 23 February 2015 – 7.30pm (Ordinary Meeting)

penrithcity.nsw.gov.au penrithishere.com.au

COUNCIL BRIEFS s There are many exciting activities planned for Seniors Week 2015 which runs from Saturday, 14 March to Sunday, 22 March.

PENRITH CITY COUNCIL ONLINE facebook.com/penrith.city.council

The annual local concert will be held at The Joan on Thursday, 19 March. Details of how to book your place will be available soon.

twitter.com/penrithcouncil

Other events planned for the week include ‘Cuppa of Experience’ in Memory Park, ‘Living Life with Stories and Songs’ at the Penrith Regional Gallery and Lewers Bequest as well as ‘Swing into Life’ for seniors in St Clair, Erskine Park and Colyton and a ‘Living Well Expo’ at the Colyton Neighbourhood Centre.

instagram.com/penrithcitycouncil youtube.com/penrithcitycouncil

All these activities are funded through Council’s annual seniors week grants program.

penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

s On Saturday, 7 March at Cranebrook Neighbourhood Centre, find out how to keep your horses happy and your land healthy by managing horses on small properties with Equiculture.

Learn how to use the natural and domesticated behaviour of horses, combined with good land management practices, to create a healthy and sustainable environment for your horses and property.

This free workshop runs between 9am–3pm and lunch is included.

For more information contact Jenna Hore on 4732 8055 or email jhore@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au s Council is hosting another great event as part of the ‘By the River’ series on Saturday, 21 February – Cinema in the Park.

penrithishere.com.au

DEVELOPMENT CONSENT/S DETERMINED Pursuant to Section 101 of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act, the schedule below lists applications recently determined by Penrith City Council.

Details of these determinations are available for public inspection

This fun-filled, family affair will take place at Regatta Park, River Road, Emu Plains, with the feature film, ‘Madagascar 3’ starting at 8pm. And at 6pm we will have plenty of fun activities for the children and the child at heart!

free of charge during Council’s normal business hours at the Civic

Look out for Council’s other upcoming events in the series, Music By the River, on Sunday, 15 March and the Sunday Siesta Markets on Sunday, 19 April and 17 May.

s Smec Urban

Centre, 601 High Street, Penrith.

Approved Development Application DA14/0407

Lot 3091 DP1165175, (No. 62–72) Bradley Street, Glenmore Park Bulk Earthworks – Stages 6 & 7, Precinct C, Mulgoa Rise

PUBLIC NOTICE Community Access Bus and Home & Community Care Bus (Wheelchair access) Applications are now being called for the use of the Community access buses in Penrith City for the period 1 April to 31 June 2015.

Disclosure of Political Donations or Gifts Development Applications are displayed at the Penrith Civic Centre. By law, reportable political donations or gifts must be disclosed by anyone lodging a planning application to Council. Call 4732 7649 or visit penrithcity.nsw.gov.au Viewing of Development Applications

Applications must be received no later than Friday, 6 March 2015.

The above development determination/s may be inspected between

These applications will be assessed by Council and applicants will be notified of the outcome.

8.30am and 4pm Mondays to Fridays (except Public Holidays) at

For further information regarding fees, application forms and conditions of hire, please call 4732 7837.

Development Services Department will be able to assist with your

Council’s Civic Centre, 601 High Street, Penrith. Officers of Council’s enquiries.

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State Election 2015

State Election 2015

Decision on new stadium to be made before March 28 election

TAFE changes will impact youth unemployment, says Prue Car

Story continued from » p. 1 “So as our population grows and other infrastructure items like the airport come into our sphere of influence, we’ve got to make sure that we’ve got sporting assets that cater to all of our population.”

Mr Ayres gave the first real indication that announcements would be made as part of the election campaign.

“We’re working through the Stadia Policy right now – we’re hopeful of making announcements before the election,” he said.

If Penrith was to win the battle, it would almost certainly guarantee Mr Ayres retains his seat at the election and would most likely give a significant boost to other local Liberal candidates including Bernard Bratusa in Londonderry, who is facing significant competition from Labor’s Prue Car. Mr Ayres said new stadiums were needed

to ensure the longevity of local sporting franchises.

“If we really want our NRL, soccer and rugby union clubs to succeed, we’ve got to create stadiums that their businesses can grow in,” he said.

“The suburban football ground doesn’t provide all of the resources that even mum and dads want – it’s just not about corporates and the big end of town... the experience has to be worth putting your hand in your pocket and spending money out of your pay cheque.”

Panthers Group CEO Warren Wilson said that while no official conversations had begun with the State Government, he remained confident that Penrith was the frontrunner.

“Were very hopeful and still reasonably confident that Penrith will be the location,” he said.

“We’re doing everything we can to make that the case.”

Interest rates fall to record lows The Reserve Bank of Australia gave local mortgage holders some good news on Tuesday by dropping the official interest rate to 2.25 per cent, a new record low.

The Bank of Queensland, which has a

strong presence in Penrith, was the first bank to announce it would pass on the full rate cut. Commonwealth Bank did the same on Wednesday morning and others were expected to follow.

DALE DRINKWATER

@daledrinkwater

outh unemployment in western Sydney is twice the rate of overall unemployment in Australia, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, and Labor has announced a plan to tackle it.

The ABS says some parts of the region showed youth unemployment as high as 16.8 per cent, a figure which Labor suggested is a result of the current cuts to education.

Labor Candidate for Londonderry, Prue Car insists the TAFE increases that took effect on January 1 will create more struggles as it prices young people in western Sydney out of a TAFE education.

“At a time where young people are struggling to get a job in western Sydney, it’s madness to be sacking TAFE teachers and making TAFE courses so unaffordable,” she said.

“We need to be educating our young people so they get courses under their belt and they can secure a stable job.”

Ms Car said when people are struggling to find work, they also struggle to afford housing, creating a problem with youth homelessness.

Shadow Minister for Youth Tania Mihailuk said Labor’s Building Skills, Growing Jobs Policy, will guarantee

Y

Prue Car at Kingswood TAFE that 15 per cent of work on major NSW Government building and civil construction projects over $500,000 will be allocated to apprentices, trainees, Indigenous Australians and the long term unemployed.

“Labor will provide direct opportunities for young apprentices and trainees to work on infrastructure projects, giving our youth the chance to learn valuable skills that will last a lifetime,” she said.

Mayor’s News The weekly views of Penrith’s Mayor

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Penrith Council has welcomed the approval of its new streamlined Local Environmental Plan (LEP) by the State Government. The new plan means Penrith can continue its transformation into an economic powerhouse of western Sydney, while retaining the lifestyle and environmental standards we hold dear.

Council has worked hard to consolidate several planning codes into a more concise, streamlined and updated plan that anticipates urban growth and sets the planning controls to deliver additional homes and jobs for Penrith.

More than $100 million worth of development is ready to be brought forward by landowners and developers as a direct result of this plan.

The new LEP makes planning information more accessible to residents, developers, business owners and community groups by repealing 35 outdated environmental planning instruments and consolidating these into a single city-wide LEP. A single LEP has considerable benefits, providing greater clarity and certainty over development oppor-

tunities and managing the growth of the city. It ensures areas are retained for their environmental value and that other areas are left as rural.

The LEP also helps deliver new dwellings in and around the Penrith City Centre and St Marys, and opens up a precinct close to the Nepean River for tourism and hospitality opportunities, including cafes and restaurants.

The Penrith Health and Education Precinct is the perfect example of what this new LEP will help us deliver. The precinct will deliver more than 13,000 new jobs and 4,500 new homes for Penrith by 2036.

These jobs will be provided in highly specialised sectors that complement and build upon the precinct’s existing health, education and research infrastructure.

The new LEP modernises our planning in keeping with our status as a Regional City under the State Government’s A Plan for a Growing City strategy.

I am excited by the opportunities that this new environmental plan holds for Penrith.

ROSS FOWLER OAM Mayor of Penrith

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Friday 6 February 2015 « the western weekender

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Federal Politics

Federal Treasurer visits Jordan Springs to talk up job creation and infrastructure spending @daledrinkwater

DALE DRINKWATER

ederal Treasurer Joe Hockey visited Jordan Springs last Friday to witness first hand the housing boom believed to be driving the country’s economic recovery from a futile mining sector.

Federal Member for Lindsay, Fiona Scott joined Mr Hockey on-site to exemplify Jordan Springs as a key development that “has taken NSW back to number one again”.

“The federal government has been committed to supporting the people of western Sydney and the treasurer has been a very, very strong voice and strong advocate,” Ms Scott said.

“We are delivering an extra $3.6 billion road package to the people of western Sydney which will include upgrades to the Northern Road and a loan to the State Government to build the Werrington Arterial, which is a $70 million package.”

Mr Hockey said 200,000 jobs were created in Australia last year, at three times the rate of the year before and was excited to see them in western Sydney.

“We want to do better this year and we can do better. The biggest infrastruc-

F

Lindsay MP Fiona Scott, Treasurer Joe Hockey and Arthur Ilias from Lend Lease

No lock-in NBN contracts!

ture package in Australia’s history was announced in last year’s budget and that is going to create jobs and we can see it on the ground right here, right now,” he said.

The demand for new housing is reportedly up 10 per cent on the previous year, and the Jordan Springs development, one of seven in the electorate, will offer over 2,500 dwellings on its own.

Mr Hockey said there were a record number of jobs last year and assured there will be even more this year.

“JK Williams has said they expect work and work is going to increase by three times the current load over the next decade,” he said.

“That’s one building company that’s going to be right across the state, right across the nation and it’s a direct result of our plan to build a stronger and more vibrant economy and that, of course, spawns new small businesses.”

The National Land Survey has named the Jordan Springs development as the best selling residential project in Australia for the past five quarters.

Arthur Ilias, General Manager of Lend Lease Communities said the project is the fastest selling project in Australia and expects it to sell out three years ahead of its anticipated date.

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the western weekender » Friday 6 February 2015

Hockey pleased with housing boom

News

Unlocking Penrith’s future potential Penrith Local Environmental Plan approved, allowing area’s strong growth to continue DALE DRINKWATER

@daledrinkwater

enrith will be an even better place to live with more new spaces for parks, shops, buzzing cafes and restaurants under new planning laws approved last week.

Minister for Planning Pru Goward met with Penrith MP Stuart Ayres to announce the Penrith Local Environmental Plan (LEP) had been approved by the Department of Planning and Environment.

Ms Goward said Penrith is now well positioned to continue its transformation as a powerhouse for economic development for western Sydney.

“Penrith is already an enviable place to live – boasting a terrific lifestyle complementing its prime position in the engine room of western Sydney, the nation’s third largest economy,” she said.

“Its status as a Regional City Centre has been confirmed to recognise its potential and grow local job centres across the city like the Penrith Education and Health Precinct. Today’s approval of Penrith City Council’s LEP streamlines more than 35 older plans into one standard set of local planning laws to use for future development decisions across the LGA.”

P

Bernard Bratusa, Paul Brennan, Pru Goward, Stuart Ayres and Ross Fowler at the Coffee Club Nepean River last week

NSW Fair Trading Minister Matthew Mason-Cox is encouraging consumers to make an extra effort to read the fine print before booking their travel arrangements, following a 10 per cent rise in the number of complaints in January.

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Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler, Councillor Bernard Bratusa and Penrith Business Alliance Chairman Paul Brennan joined the announcement that Mr Ayres said will help continue the city’s achievements.

“It’s a little known fact that Penrith is home to a greater proportion of full-time workers than Sydney’s average, with more than 40 per cent of our residents working full-time,” Mr Ayres said.

“This says to me that our community is a collection of people who want to go out there and make positive change, whether it’s setting up a small business or working for a local business to make a living.”

Cr Fowler said the Penrith Health and Education Precinct is the perfect example of what this new plan of more than $100 million worth of development will deliver, providing 13,000 jobs and 4,500 homes for Penrith by 2036.

“These jobs will be provided in highly specialised sectors that complement and build upon the precinct’s existing health, education and research infrastructure,” he said.

“The LEP also helps deliver new dwellings in and around the Penrith City Centre and St Marys, and opens up a precinct close to the Nepean River for tourism and hospitality opportunities.”

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Friday 6 February 2015 « the western weekender

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“Whether it’s a family holiday trip to Byron Bay or a solo trip overseas, every year, consumers spend large sums of money towards their holidays. While

Cancer of the liver looms as Australia’s greatest cancer challenge, with new analysis revealing that liver cancer has the highest ‘death-to-incidence ratio’ – indicating shorter average survival – of any cancer in Australia.

Latest Australian Institute of Health and Welfare data analysed by Hepatitis Australia reveals that the number of new cases of liver cancer each year (1446) is matched by the number of lives lost to the disease (1419) annually.

This means that for every Australian diagnosed with liver cancer, another Australian loses their life.

The analysis uncovered that liver cancer had a death-to-incidence ratio of 0.98 (almost one death for every new

most trips go to plan, not all have a happy ending,” he said.

“About 1340 travel and tourism related complaints were lodged with NSW Fair Trading in the 12 months to December 2014. I am pleased to see that the number is down from the 1448 complaints received in the previous year.

“However, since the start of this year, the Department has received 110 complaints, about 10 per cent higher than the same period in 2014.’’

Flight cancellations, misrepresentations about hotel accommodation and travel refunds were among the most common complaints received.

“Make sure to carefully read special promotions, discounted fares and membership offers,” Mr Mason-Cox said.

case), compared with much lower ratios for breast cancer (0.2), prostate cancer (0.16), melanoma (0.13), bowel cancer

1446

new cases (0.26), and even lung cancer (0.77).

In stark contrast with nearly all other cancers where survival rates have steadily improved over the last two decades, there has been no improvement in liver cancer prognosis.

15 the western weekender » Friday 6 February 2015

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Federal Politics

Can you provide a safe, stable and supportive home to an adolescent?

Service Centre is providing vital support to locals who need help DALE DRINKWATER

@daledrinkwater

t Marys Service Centre is leading the way in Centrelink’s move to connect with outside organisations to provide at risk community members with extra support.

Staff met with Minister for Human Services, Senator Marise Payne and Federal Member for Lindsay, Fiona Scott to highlight the variety of services that can be offered to the community.

Senator Payne said the St Marys Service Centre is vital in connecting vulnerable members of the public to government and community support.

“These people work very closely with those community organisations to support our customers who may be in a fairly marginalised space,” she said.

“Our social workers are available to talk to people who might be struggling across homelessness, substance dependency, domestic violence; and that sort of support is incredibly important.”

She explained a Multicultural Service Officer can work directly with refugees, migrants and community groups to ensure those with difficulties with language or computer skills are offered help in order to access the services.

Ms Scott said the St Marys Centre’s outreach work is leading the way in clos-

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Marise Payne and Fiona Scott at St Marys Service Centre ing the gap and building relationships that are crucial to building a stronger community.

“The centre is a beacon for people who may find themselves overwhelmed by life’s challenges,” she said.

“Here in St Marys they have a lot of emergency accommodation so if people find themselves homeless and need somewhere to stay the night, they will find a bed.”

Jodie Kennedy, St Marys Service Centre Manager said they also link with services such as mental health, Partners in Recovery, and drug and alcohol services.

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Friday 6 February 2015 ÂŤ the western weekender

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19 the western weekender Âť Friday 6 February 2015

Calling all commuters, sole traders an d small business owners, Are you tired of wasting hours out of y our already busy day commuting into the City for work? Would you like to ta ke your small business to the next SL]LS I I` ^VYRPUN MMYVT H H KLKPJH[LK W WYVMLZZPVUHS VMĂ&#x201E;JL Z ZWHJL& 0M ` `V\ Ă&#x201E; Ă&#x201E;UK yourself nodding to either of these que stions, then you must visit the newly opened Smart Work Hub, iWork@Pen rith.

Supported by Penrith City Council and the NSW Government, iWork@Penrith is an innovative shared working space committed to facilitating work-life balance. Catering for approximately 4 0 people at any one time and boasting an impressive array of resources with 24/7 access through the use of a secure swipe card system, this new w ay of working is available to anyone in ZLHYJO V VM NYLH[LY ^ ^VYRPUN L LMĂ&#x201E;JPLUJ` HUK Ă&#x2026; Ă&#x2026;L_PIPSP[` For all workin ng commuters, this is your opportunity to become telecommuters.

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Friday 6 February 2015 ÂŤ the western weekender

20

Information at your fingertips In a time of emergency during natural disasters in the area, a lack of information about the incident can lead to a lot of stress and fear in local residents.

A new version of the Emergency AUS app has been recently released, making emergency information from over 20 official sources and crowd sourced information from over 150,000 users available to local residents for free.

The app delivers a comprehensive view of real-time emergency information, which can help to keep local residents calm and able to make educated decisions about their actions during disasters.

The new app is able to warn people of impending danger based on the GPS location of their phone and also allows people to watch particular areas or disasters.

Over the last 12 months the app has sent over 25 million notifications alerting Australians of incidents and warnings.

It allows people to track rain, thunderstorms, cyclones and bushfire perimeter information and lets the public share their own information and photos. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The sensory observation function allows communities to help one another by providing local reports and updates of the emergency situation as it unfolds, and share valuable information on where to find food, water and shelter in the midst of a disaster,â&#x20AC;? said ex-emergency services manager and director of Emergency AUS, Luke Corbett.

Emergency AUS is free and available for Apple and Google Android devices.

O E S N VIC CT A ER TR S N O C

Council

Young leaders shape Penrithâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future Forum aims to find innovative solutions to the issues that divide us DALE DRINKWATER

@daledrinkwater

group of diverse young leaders voiced their opinions on our growing city on Monday in the first Inglis Clarke Circle event in Australia, hosted by Penrith Council.

16 young leaders from western Sydney teamed up in pairs at Penrith Libraryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Theatrette to debate on topical issues and come up with their own 21st century answers to age old questions, Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s values and the future of the country.

The Inglis Clarke Circle, named after the author of Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s constitution Andrew Inglis Clark, is a series of events that aim to replicate Inglis Clarkeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 1890s â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;salonsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; that he held around the world to deliberate with diverse people in designing our countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future.

The Inglis Clarke Circle was facilitated by diplomat David Morris and Director of Kapacity.org, Natasha Cica, who have both previously worked on similar projects internationally.

Ms Cica spoke to the group about cultural diversity and how to tackle it, â&#x20AC;&#x153;about what their values are as people of Penrith, but also Australians and also really as humans in that larger senseâ&#x20AC;?. â&#x20AC;&#x153;My impression of your community is

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Mayor Ross Fowler with David Morris (behind Mr Fowler) and Natasha Cica (second right from middle) at the event on Monday that thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a really genuine, really deep understanding of what all those buzz words are â&#x20AC;&#x201C; tolerance, diversity, respect,â&#x20AC;? she said.

Young leaders addressed the issue of unawareness as a driver for preconceived racial and cultural stereotypes, and suggested to focus on exposing people to other cultures through physical experiences through schools. They were questioned about their ideas and how to become a leader, with one young leader suggesting you can â&#x20AC;&#x153;become a leader through expressing your viewsâ&#x20AC;?.

Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler addressed the group and spoke about why he began as a leader in the community, ultimately becoming Mayor of the city. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When I was younger, my father said to me that youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re living out of the community, so you should put something back,â&#x20AC;? he said.

A Council spokesperson said the 21st century Inglis Clarke Circle is about how young leaders can be empowered in diverse communities to join together and find creative and innovative solutions to what divides us.

COUNCIL SNAPSHOT Council has supported a request to formally change the name of the reserve between Denver Road and Colorado Drive in St Clair to the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Bill and Eva Martin Reserveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

The Martin family played an active role in the community through their riding school and sponsorship of events.

The request for the naming was supported by a petition with over 30 signatures, and a letter from the St Marys RSL Sub Branch in which Councillor Greg Davies gives thanks. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s for two people who thoroughly deserve it,â&#x20AC;? Cr Davies said.

Council has made an application to the Geographical Names Board for its consideration.

Part of Station Lane in Penrithâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s CBD will be permanently closed now approval has been provided by NSW Trades and Investment.

The site, an â&#x20AC;&#x153;unused paper roadâ&#x20AC;?, is within the public car park bounded by Union Lane, Union Road and Station Street and was identified as suitable for redevelopment within the Penrith Progression. Council has approved the application and survey plans have been prepared for lodgement and registration with the office of Land and Property Information.

Once the plan is registered, a Certifi-

cate of Title will be issued for the land affected.

Council has received $67,000 from the State Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Building Resilience to Climate Change program to go towards â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Adapting to Urban Heat Events â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a Western Sydney and Inner West Analysisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; research project.

The research will undertake heat mapping and assess hot spots to determine how and why communities may be at risk.

The findings will directly contribute to the development of a draft Cooling the City Strategy, that will be completed by the end of the financial year.

Jessica Fox will promote Penrith Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Penrith is Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; brand on the paddles of her competition kayak and canoe, now that she has secured a sponsorship deal with the city.

Fox, world champion and silver medallist in the London Olympic Games, will receive $10,000 over the next two years in exchange for her exposure of Penrith City.

Council wishes to use Foxâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sponsorship as an opportunity to discuss the possibility of a structured ambassador program for the future.

Fox was recently named Penrithâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Woman of the Year.

Business

Recent fire proves problem business owners have known for years

Emma Husar at York Public School, South Penrith

Mia and John Joosten are concerned about the entry and exit points of Dunheved Business Park. Photo: Melinda Jane KATHERINE TWEED

@ktweed_

recent factory fire in Dunheved Business Park has re-ignited concerns of local business people who fear that with just one way in and one way out, lives could be in danger if another disaster occurs in the area.

They say that it is just luck that the fire, which happened when an oil recycling factory exploded into flames on January 17, happened on a weekend because had it been a weekday, evacuation would have been virtually impossible.

Links Road, where it connects to Forrester Road, is the only way in or out of the business park, where there are close to 200 businesses.

John Joosten has been involved in the park for about 35 years, through his own business and his involvement as president of the Rembrandt Dutch Club, which is situated on Dunheved Circuit.

He said that the issue has been ongoing for that entire time, with the State Government even promising to set aside funding for a new road back in 1988, but nothing has been done.

“We’re virtually trapped in the circuit,” Mr Joosten said.

“Even yesterday I was leaving the area at about 4pm and there was about 33 cars in a queue to get out of the circuit. It takes you 20 minutes to get out.

“My biggest concern is that if anything were to happen at the roundabout, if an accident were to occur, there is no way out. This is a problem that needs to be fixed sooner rather than later,” he added.

A

“My biggest concern is that if anything were to happen at the roundabout, if an accident were to occur, there is no way out”

Factory owner Peter Genellos said the situation was dangerous.

“If [the fire] had happened on a weekday it would have been mayhem and would have stopped the whole subdivision. It would have been a logistical nightmare for the police; it was anyway, but all I can say is thank God it didn’t happen throughout the week,” he said.

Penrith Council is in deep discussion about the need for an additional entry and exit-way to the business park and are expecting developments in the planning process in the near future, with a related planning agreement to come before Council in the coming months.

“Council is aware of the need for another road to improve traffic flow and access in and out of the estate,” a spokesperson said.

“Council has been working hard with Lend Lease and in consultation with RMS to bring this project to fruition. We are developing detailed designs for the intersection and these designs will be submitted for approval at the appropriate time.”

Mr Joosten said that the matter is very time sensitive and lives could be at risk if the problem is not addressed soon.

“I think we woke [the governing bodies] up. They are now starting to realise that this can’t wait much longer... it is getting scary,” he said.

The board of the Rembrandt Dutch Club are hosting a meeting next week, encouraging Council, government representatives and other local business owners to meet together to discuss the issue.

Five schools in the Penrith Local Government Area are teaching children in demountable classrooms that are over 16 years old, an age that Labor insists is far from temporary.

Labor’s $100 million commitment to get students out of unairconditioned demountables and into permanent classrooms will allow children to achieve their maximum potential, the Opposition says.

Emma Husar, Labor Candidate for Penrith, highlighted that demountables which are supposed to be only temporary are still in place and letting down the youngest members of society.

“They’re used as a temporary measure, but we need to define what temporary is.

Certainly 10, 15 and 20 years, which some of these classrooms are, that’s beyond temporary,” she said.

“Our kids deserve the best start in life; these aren’t just hollow statements, my kids also attend public schools.”

Glenmore Park Public School has six demountables that are over 10-years-old, and Regentville Public School has four, with its oldest being 19-years-old.

Ms Husar said the temporary classrooms don’t always have the facilities of a permanent classroom, such as necessary insulation or technology.

“Quite often with a demountable classroom you can’t actually insulate it,” she said.

“They can be air conditioned but you have to run the air conditioning full time.

The rooms tend to have a bit of a smell, a musky kind of smell, and they tend to be very, very hot or very, very cold.

“Because they are not permanent they also don’t lend themselves to being fit out in a way that paves the way for 21st century learning with Smartboards, computers and IT, things like that.”

Labor Leader Luke Foley announced the $100 million 10 year plan and said a government under him would have a longterm view of schooling.

“Unfortunately up to 100,000 students will be going back to school in demountable classrooms – a legacy of the Liberals’ failure to invest in our schools over the last four years,” he said.

“One in 10 teaching spaces are now demountable buildings, and almost one in five of the around 4,500 demountables in NSW have been at schools for more than 15 years.

“It’s clear that temporary demountables have become permanent classrooms.”

– Dale Drinkwater

21 the western weekender » Friday 6 February 2015

Overhaul of business park needed to protect lives

Labor promises better classrooms

Friday 6 February 2015 « the western weekender

22

Community

Volunteers honoured for critical work Premier Mike Baird congratulates Legacy for its often unheralded efforts in the local community KATHERINE TWEED

@ktweed_

or many years Legacy has been supporting the families of deceased Defence Force personnel in the local area, without ever asking for thanks or recognition.

The hundreds of ‘Legatees’ carrying out the work of the organisation through advocating, raising funds and directly supporting families, were formally acknowledged last week by NSW Premier Mike Baird, who publicly recognised the organisation during the NSW Government’s Twilight Ceremony at Darling Harbour on Australia Day. Each year a group of outstanding volunteers is acknowledged in the same way.

Sydney Legacy President, Eric Easterbrook, has been helping support families in his home town for many years.

The Emu Plains resident said he was proud to be part of the organisation.

“To be recognised on such a large scale like this makes you very proud of all the legatees who have been part of Legacy since 1923, when we started,” he said.

“Part of the legacy code is that we don’t accept or seek praise and recognition for the work we do. Because of this, having

F

18 legatees were chosen to be presented to the Governor His Excellency General David Hurley AC DSC (Ret’d) and Premier of NSW Mike Baird at the Darling Harbour Australia Day festivities this rare honour bestowed on us gives us that warm fuzzy feeling.”

Legacy provides support to a number of local families in many different ways, depending on their individual needs.

Some families need assistance in paying their bills, some need a hand getting their kids to school and some need the help of a carer.

“I would say that 99.9 per cent of the cases we are involved in have a positive outcome. I would hasten to say that there are no other organisations that do the work that we do for as long as we have,” Mr Easterbrook said.

“According to research by the Department of Veteran Affairs, there will be a need for Legacy until 2086.”

Mr Baird praised the dedication of the Legacy volunteers.

“For more than 90 years Legatees have volunteered their time and resources to Legacy,” he said.

“People like this are the lifeblood of our community and I am deeply proud of the vital work they have done in the past, and appreciate all their efforts.”

WW15805

23

Health

Penrith women urged to be more aware of ovarian cancer as death rate remains frightening KATHERINE TWEED

@ktweed_

t has the lowest survival rate of all women’s cancers, yet more than half of Australian women don’t know the symptoms of ovarian cancer or that there is no early detection test.

This month is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, which has health professionals and organisations like Ovarian Cancer Australia begging local women to get educated about the disease.

Ovarian cancer each year is diagnosed in 1400 Australian women and kills over 1000, with statistics showing that only 43 per cent of women live over five years after diagnosis.

“The problem with ovarian cancer is that the symptoms are very non specific and there isn’t a test currently that screens for it. Many women mistakenly think that a pap test screens for everything,” said Jo Perks from Penrith Women’s Health Centre.

“By the time a woman presents with symptoms the disease has often advanced.”

A study, conducted by Wallis Market and Social Research for Ovarian Cancer Australia, found that one third of women also wrongly believe that the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine prevents ovarian cancer and that one in 10 don’t know that the oral contraceptive pill reduces the risk of the disease.

Ms Perks said that the important thing for women to remember is to be vigilant with their health and to be confident enough to ask the tough questions of their GP. “Report any ongoing symptoms that have been present for four weeks or more – bloating, nausea, change in bowel habit, weight gain, unusual bleeding,” she recommended.

“These symptoms could be signs of something else like irritable bowel. Don’t be frightened to see you health profes-

I

Jo Perks says that there is no early detection test for ovarian cancer sional to discuss any concerns you may have. You have rights!”

The four key symptoms of ovarian cancer are abdominal or pelvic pain, increased abdominal size or bloating, the need to urinate often or urgently and feeling full after eating a small amount. Ovarian Cancer Australia has launched a National Action Plan for Ovarian Cancer Research with the hopes of changing the death rate.

“Recent research has discovered that ovarian cancer is a collection of diseases rather than just one, each with their own distinct characteristics and behaviours,” said Ovarian Cancer Australia Board Member Tracey Curro.

“The problem with ovarian cancer is that the symptoms are very non specific”

“This gives us a range of promising opportunities, such as better treatment solutions targeting the specific nature of a woman’s type of ovarian cancer, which can only be achieved through muchneeded funding for further research.

“We hope that Australians come out in force this February to allow us to really make an impact on the prognosis of the disease, better treatment options, and greater support for women and their families.”

Local residents can get involved by hosting an ‘Afternoon Teal’, with teal the international colour for the disease, this month or by purchasing a Teal Ribbon.

Wild brawl in Cranebrook An axe-wielding man has been charged after his alleged involvement in a violent brawl that took place in Cranebrook last weekend.

Police allege that before they were called to the scene at about 6pm on Sunday, February 1, a 22-year-old male took to a car and the door of a premises in Martley Way, causing significant damage.

The man, who was at one time armed with an axe, was then approached by a group and a brawl broke out.

After receiving reports that a person had been injured during the incident in the street, emergency services raced to the scene and upon arrival, located a man who was suffering serious head injuries.

The Careflight trauma team was called

to assist paramedics, who stabilised the 32-year-old at the scene.

He was airlifted to Royal North Shore hospital in a critical condition. His condition is now listed as stable.

According to the police, the 22-yearold axe-wielder was found at a nearby premises and was also suffering serious injuries.

“The male was treated at Nepean Hospital before being interviewed at Penrith Police Station. Police will allege the male was a participant in the incident, and was at one stage armed with an axe,” a Penrith Police spokesperson said.

He was taken to Nepean Hospital for treatment before being transported back to Penrith Police Station, where he was

An injured man is assisted by paramedics. Photo: Dean Asher interviewed as part of police investigations.

He was charged for contravening an Apprehended Violence Order and being armed with intent to deliberately damage

another person’s property. He was initially refused bail and appeared at Penrith Local Court the following day, on Monday, February 2.

– Katherine Tweed

the western weekender » Friday 6 February 2015

The silent cancer killer that remains the subject of myths and inaccuracies

Friday 6 February 2015 « the western weekender

24

Community

Find your perfect pooch this Valentine’s Day KATHERINE TWEED

@ktweed_

or local residents without a Valentine for February 14, Petbarn Penrith in Coreen Avenue has you covered with a day of ‘pet dating’.

The local store, in conjunction with animal shelter Paws’n’Hooves and the Petbarn Foundation, is playing match maker this Valentine’s Day, offering local residents the opportunity to go on a minidate with a number of animals who are looking for new homes.

The event is to raise awareness of the importance of pet adoption and is hoped to encourage people to choose adoption as an alternative to purchasing a pet from a pet shop.

“The Petbarn Foundation is dedicated to ensuring every animal has a loving place to call home and Valentine’s Day is the perfect time for us to talk to those who are thinking of adding a furry friend to their family,” said Patrick Bartush, Store Manager of Petbarn Penrith Coreen Avenue.

“We encourage you to come in and meet some of the gorgeous pets that are up for adoption and you could end up saving a life.”

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There will be pet adoptions available on the day for local residents who do find the perfect match, with all proceeds to be donated to the Paws’n’Hooves rescue group, which is based in Lethbridge Park.

All cats and dogs are de-sexed, vaccinated and micro-chipped.

“We’re proud to partner with Petbarn to help find homes for animals in need.

We know that it can be difficult for some people to visit our animal shelter, so we hope this makes it easier by bringing the animals to a location that’s more convenient for people looking to adopt a pet,” said Paul Lewis, Paws’n’Hooves rescue group president.

The team at Petbarn are preparing to match dogs and cats with new owners

Community

Children from across Sydney enjoy a day out in Penrith

The kids had a great time at the Nepean River KATHERINE TWEED

enrith has become a destination for charitable organisations to take the people they support, as it offers a range of different activities.

In the recent school holidays, a large number of children who are supported

by Legacy headed to special holiday camps run by the organisation.

The children, primary school and junior high school students from across Sydney, were based at Sydney Legacy’s Moss Vale Holiday House but ventured out for a day in Penrith.

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@ktweed_

There the kids were able to enjoy a picnic lunch at Nepean River’s Tench Reserve and had a go at iFLY to attempt indoor skydiving.

“Legacy supports children who have a veteran parent who has given their life or health in service to our country,” said Sydney Legacy President, Eric Easterbrook.

“The camps are an opportunity for them to meet others who face similar challenges. We are always surprised to see how quickly friendships form amongst these children and from our 90 plus year history we know that many of them will become lifelong friends.”

25 the western weekender » Friday 6 February 2015

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Emma Hogan from Glenmore Park is preparing to jump out of a plane KATHERINE TWEED

@ktweed_

eenager Emma Hogan is reaching for new heights in her determination to change the world’s perspective of type 1 diabetes and raise funds for a cure.

The Glenmore Park girl is gearing up to take part in Jump to Cure Diabetes, where she will partake in a tandem skydive to raise funds and awareness of the condition.

Emma, 13, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, or juvenile diabetes which is not curable, when she was just sevenyears-old, and has been campaigning for a cure for a number of years since.

“I wanted to do something different this time – the walk for junior diabetes, I have done it a few times already. I am also trying to prove that the type 1 diabetes isn’t going to hold me back from doing

T

anything like a skydive,” Emma said.

“You hear about doing walks for charity but you don’t really hear much about jumping out of a plane for things. I am a little bit nervous, but not too much.”

She said that the public has a lot of misconceptions about the condition, misconceptions she hopes to address when she makes the jump.

“People always think ‘she can’t do that because she has type 1 diabetes, it will affect her too much’, but I can do anything I want. I just have to make sure I keep good control and take care of myself,” she said.

Emma has been fundraising for the jump at her school and is in the process of organising a raffle.

Local residents who want to help out are welcome to make a donation through her fundraising webpage, which can be found at http://ow.ly/InDFS or by calling 0402 245 502.

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WEDDING

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Here are some wedding venue ideas that you may like to consider for your big day: CHURCH OR CHAPEL: If you’re after a traditional wedding experience then you may as well go the most traditional option of all and hold it in a beautiful church or intimate chapel.

PASSION PLACE: A lot of couples, these days, are holding their weddings at places that relate to their passion. So if you like butterflies then why not consider holding your wedding at a butterfly farm or if you’re huge rugby league fans then, by all means, hold it at a stadium.

WINERIES: A picturesque winery is starting to become an increasingly popular option to hold a wedding, mostly because of the beautiful scenery and the fact many also offer a reception venue with great wine!

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PARK: If you’re on a budget or perhaps enjoy the great outdoors then there’s nothing wrong with holding your wedding at a beautiful public or private park. Just check with the local Council.

BACKYARD: If you want your guests to really get to know you then there is nothing more personal than holding a wedding in your very own backyard. Show off your beautiful garden but just make sure you have enough room to fit everybody.

EXTREME WEDDING: Why the hell not! Get married scuba diving, skydiving or mountain climbing – you’ll never forget it!

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the western weekender » Friday 6 February 2015

Struggling to find the perfect wedding venue?

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Friday 6 February 2015 ÂŤ the western weekender

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WEDDING

Andilou

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MAKEUP ARTISTRY The perfect civil celebrant will help your special day go smoothly our special day is the most important day of your life, and one way to make sure itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perfect is by finding the best civil celebrant for you.

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Janice ensures every wedding, no matter the size, carries the same sacred meaning â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a meaning of joy, love and family. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I will work with you to create that special ceremony for you and your family and friends. It will be a ceremony that speaks about you, your love and your relationship,â&#x20AC;? she said.

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31 SPONSORED CONTENT

Home entertainment at your fingertips

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McCalls

4/89 Batt Street, Jamisontown 4732 6605 sales@mccallsavonline.com.au www.mccallsavonline.com.au

ith an enormous range of products available, deciding on a sound and visual solution for your home entertainment system is a challenge, but with the recent opening of McCalls Audio Visual’s brand new showroom in Batt Street, Penrith, that decision just got a whole lot easier.

The family owned local business has over 18 years experience matching local residents and business people with entertainment systems to suit their individual needs, and with a new showroom offering the latest and greatest in technologies, the team is even better equipped to do so.

Owner Eric McCall said the new location showcases the best that McCalls has to offer.

“We have expertly designed displays at our new location that show local consumers exactly what each system sounds and looks like. Add to this the newest technologies, including the 360 degree Dolby ‘Atmos’ systems, and there is no need to look further,” he said.

“Our new showroom makes it so easy for customers to compare different products so that they can find the exact system that they are looking for.”

There are about a dozen displays at the showroom and customers are able to listen to songs or movie clips on each of them in turn.

Many of the systems on display use brand new technologies, only just released for sale.

“In addition, we can incorporate Wi-Fi technologies that allow the systems to be controlled by your smart phone or tablet,” Mr McCall said.

The expert team at McCalls Audio Visual are happy to help local residents with all their audio and visual needs.

So if you’ve been considering an audio and visual upgrade, or you’re just curious about what’s on the market these days, don’t hesitate to visit the new showroom in Jamisontown.

Visit them in store at Unit 4, 89 Batt Street, Jamisontown or head to the website www.mccallsavonline.com.au

the western weekender » Friday 6 February 2015

BUSINESS OF THE WEEK

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BUSINESS TIPS

Friday 6 February 2015 « the western weekender

32

Storytelling: The ultimate case study

Leadership is so important to the success of your business

Michelle Grice // Founder of Shel Design

Michael Todd // Small Biz Connect Advisor Penrith Valley BEC

A

few months ago I wrote an article for this column about the amazing rise on social media of the blog (and Facebook page) called ‘Humans of New York (HONY)’.

That article was about the marketing lessons we can learn from this enterprise.

Since that article, HONY has continued to increase its social media followers and has impacted them (and his photography subjects) in powerful ways.

Over the past couple of weeks, the owner of HONY was able to raise over $1,000,000 (and counting!) for a school in one of the toughest districts of New York.

This campaign was not intentional: it began with one photograph and interview with a student from the school, and it snowballed from there.

The reason it snowballed is largely because Brandon, the creator of HONY, is a great storyteller.

Most often the caption he posts under the photo is simple and unembellished.

But he has a way of being provocative in that the whole story is not always told.

He leaves questions unanswered.

This in turn makes the reader ask questions, either about the subject or of themselves.

The result is that we feel connected to these ‘ordinary’ people because they are going about their ‘ordinary’ lives. But the photo and story create a sense that there is no ‘ordinary’.

So what does that mean for us in our businesses?

How can we use this example to help people connect to what we have to offer?

The answer to this is not the same for everyone!

And of course some of us are better storytellers than others.

But time and again, marketing gurus will tell us that we need to find a way to tell our business story in order for potential customers to connect with us.

But I think HONY has given us some clues: keep it simple and honest, and show the ‘humanness’ of your business.

I’m happy to hear how you tell your business story. Email news@westernweekender.com.au to share your history and success stories.

N

o matter what the workplace, effective leadership is very important. It can mean success or failure, growth or loss and satisfaction or general discontent among employees.

Leadership is more than just the management of assigning tasks and establishing goals. It is also the ability to inspire and motivate, give confidence and encouragement whilst also providing authority and feedback.

Walk the talk. Good leaders show employees how it should be done through actions and attitudes. In business, staff looks to leaders not only for vision and guidance, but as someone to emulate. So set the standard by putting in the amount of effort you expect in return.

For many employees, good leadership within their company can be more important than financial benefits. It is often the case that people are willing to leave a business and good benefits, for the lack of good leadership.

Some attributes of good leaders are: Team-building skills: Recognition and acknowledgement are two of the most powerful motivators in human behav-

iour; a leader who gives credit where it is due, shares it around the team and rewards followers for their contribution will build a more cohesive and successful team.

Courage and determination: Effective workplace leaders have the confidence to stand behind what they believe in and the drive to inspire their team to overcome challenges.

Stability: Staff who see their boss as honest and having a strong commitment to doing the right thing are more assured.

They know that their leader’s integrity will not be shaken when tough decisions need to be made. Their boss will “stick up” for their employees and support them.

Flexible leadership style: Every person and situation is different. The ability to adapt leadership styles is important.

Open Mind: Effective leaders take risks, they are not afraid of innovative ideas which challenge the status quo and welcome these from their team.

Integrity: Leadership cannot succeed without trust and respect and these two can only be given when a leader shows great integrity and ethics.

Looking for a new challenge in 2015?

Hix Group is a Penrith based Trades Services company employing more than 60 staff across a range of trades including Electrical, Plumbing, Fire Services, CCTV/Security & Carpentry/Maintenance.

We have secured a number of new contracts for 2015 and require new team members in a range of capacities to join us as we expand. We pride ourselves on supporting the local community so are seeking “Local people for our local jobs” WE HAVE THE FOLLOWING ROLES AVAILABLE: • LICENSED ELECTRICIAN/ DATA TECHNICIAN

• LICENSED CARPENTER / HANDYMAN

Experienced in installation, termination & testing of UTP,SH/UTP and fibre systems across commercial & government sites, with Data Qualifications & Endorsements

• PLUMBER With a range of experience in domestic and commercial plumbing which may include Hot Water, Pipe relining, backflow prevention etc

• FIRE SERVICES TECHNICIAN With a range of experience across testing, inspection, maintenance and repairs including Extinguishers, Pumps, FIP, EWIS, Hose Reels, Fire Doors.

Be a Licensed Carpenter who is an “all-rounder” willing to undertake all aspects of domestic & commercial maintenance, repairs, general cleaning & co-ordination of other trades requirements for domestic, strata and commercial works

• WAREHOUSE / STOREMAN An energetic “all rounder”, with Forklift licence & knowledge in the construction field, to provide warehouse and stores assistance for our technicians and management.

• APPRENTICE ELECTRICIANS 1st & 2nd Year Apprentices also required - must have HSC (including Maths), Manual driver’s licence & may have undertaken a pre-apprenticeship or schools-based apprenticeship

We offer employment to local people across all ages, so if you hold a “White Card”, Driver’s Licence and the relevant qualifications and experience, please forward your resume now or call for more information: Lea Hicks,General Manager - lea@hix.com.au Phone : 4721 7500

WW15732

Your solution to professional trades & services

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AUTOMOTIVE

NATHAN TAYLOR natetaylor87

J

aguar Land Rover is developing a range of new technologies that use colours, sounds and touch inside the car to alert drivers to potential hazards and prevent accidents involving bicycles and motorbikes.

Sensors on the car will detect when another road user is approaching and identify it as a bicycle or motorbike. Bike Sense will then make the driver aware of the potential hazard before the driver sees it.

But rather than using a generic warning icon or sound, which takes time for the driver’s brain to process, Bike Sense uses lights and sounds that the driver will instinctively associate with the potential danger.

To help the driver understand where the bike is in relation to their car, the audio system will make it sound as if a bicycle bell or motorbike horn is coming through the speaker nearest the bike, so the driver immediately understands the direction the cyclist is coming from.

If a bicycle or motorbike is coming up the road behind the car, Bike Sense will detect if it is overtaking or coming past the vehicle on the inside, and an air cushion

The roads could become a lot safer thanks to Bike Sense inside the top of the car seat will extend to ‘tap’ the driver on the left or right shoulder. The idea is that the driver will then instinctively look over that shoulder to identify the potential hazard.

As the cyclist gets closer to the car, a matrix of LED lights on the window sills, dashboard and windscreen pillars will

glow amber and then red as the bike approaches. The movement of these red and amber lights across these surfaces will also highlight the direction the bike is taking.

Dr Wolfgang Epple, Director of Research and Technology, Jaguar Land Rover, said: “Human beings have developed

an instinctive awareness of danger over thousands of years. Certain colours like red and yellow will trigger an immediate response, while everyone recognises the sound of a bicycle bell”.

If a group of cyclists, motorbikes or pedestrians were moving around the car on a busy urban street, the system would intelligently prioritise the nearest hazards so the driver would not be overwhelmed or distracted with light or sound.

Bike Sense would also be able to identify hazards that the driver cannot see. If a pedestrian or cyclist is crossing the road, and they are obscured by a stationary vehicle, the car’s sensors will detect this and draw the driver’s attention to the hazard using directional light and sound.

If the driver ignores the warnings and presses the accelerator, Bike Sense will make the accelerator pedal vibrate or feel stiff, so the driver instinctively knows not to move the car forwards until the hazard has been avoided.

Bike Sense will also help prevent vehicle doors being opened into the path of bikes when the vehicle is parked. Bike Sense would warn all passengers of an approaching cyclist, motorbike or car through sound and light inside the vehicle. If any passenger continues to open the door, the door handle will light up, vibrate and buzz to alert them to the danger.

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the western weekender » Friday 6 February 2015

Safety overhaul: New technology alerts drivers to dangers around them including bicycles and motorbikes

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Friday 6 February 2015 « the western weekender

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As their name suggests, M&M Mobile Windscreens also operate a mobile service throughout Penrith and the Lower Mountains for your convenience.

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M&M Mobile Windscreens are located at 3/19 Copeland St, Kingswood.

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located in Kingswood, specialise in windscreen repair and replacement.

If you find a small chip in your windscreen, it’s important to get it seen to as soon as possible. Chips may be repairable, which means you won’t have to bear the cost of a full windscreen replacement.

If you ignore the chip, the impact of bumps in the road and changes in weather conditions could turn chips into cracks beyond repair.

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weekender

ANTE COVIC

Wanderers still can’t find first victory p.39

Chance for locals to give BMX a try IF you are looking for a family friendly action sport, then get down to the Penrith BMX Club, who will be holding a ‘National Sign-on Day’ this Saturday, February 7, at their track on Creek Road, behind Blair Oval, in St Marys.

BMX is one of the fastest growing sports in Australia, and is one of the only sports where total family participation can take place, providing fun for all ages – from two-year-old mini-wheelers to veterans over 60.

It is a fast, fun action sport with jumps and turns on a dirt track that can be between 300 and 400 metres long, incorporating the excitement and spectacle of motorcycle motocross without the noise.

The sport does not discriminate between boys and girls or mums and dads, and provides great exercise for kids and adults alike.

The upcoming National Sign-on Day at the Penrith BMX Club is an excellent opportunity for any member of the community who is interested in BMX to come and try the thrill of BMX racing free of charge.

BMX Australia President Barry Knight said the National Sign-on Day had been put on for the public to experience the sport and gain a better understanding of what is involved.

“BMX is such a fun sport that can be enjoyed by the whole family. We are inviting anyone who has wanted to give the sport a try to come down to the Penrith BMX Club to experience first hand the excitement of BMX racing,” he said.

For more information about the day on Saturday, visit www. bmxaustralia.com.au.

Harness heroes on their way to Penrith Leading American driver Tim Tetrick will be at the event NATHAN TAYLOR

@natetaylor87

en of the best harness racing drivers in the world are heading to Penrith later this month to compete in the 2015 World Driving Championship.

The World Driving Championship, the oldest and richest horse racing event of its kind, will hold three of its qualifying heat races in Penrith on Thursday, February 26.

Penrith Paceway, along with five other metro and regional tracks in NSW, will

T

Last two Rego Days February 2015

Saturday 7th 4pm-7pm Sunday 8th 9am-1pm

host these important races ahead of the final heat at the Inter Dominion, which will be held on March 1.

The event is expected to attract some of the biggest names in the sport of harness racing, including Australia’s own Chris Alford, who said he was looking forward to competing on home soil.

“It’s going to be a very competitive series given the depth, experience and performance records of the other drivers,” Alford said.

“I’m looking forward to the challenge and testing my skills against the world’s best.”

Penrith Paceway CEO, Lorraine Pozza,

said she hopes the event will attract a big crowd.

“The calibre of drivers coming to Penrith is truly exceptional,” she said.

“The races are going to be very competitive and I’m sure everyone watching will be on the edge of their seats.

“I would love to see a big crowd come to support the drivers. It’s something different for people to see in Penrith, and the atmosphere is going to be electric.”

For more information on the 2015 World Driving Championship happening in Penrith, visit www.clubpacewaypenrith. com.

ST. MARYS X Players turning 5 in 2015 to All Age, including Over 35's & 45's.

X Female only team start at under 10's.

SOCCER CLUB X All registrations to be done online at MyFootballClub.com.au or via our website and follow the link.

X All new players need proof of age ( License, passport or birth certificate).

X Discounts apply to fully paid registrations on the 7 official rego days.

X All junior players up to and including U16’s receive a soccer ball.

! d n e k e s we Website: www.stmaryssoccer.com.au i h T At Potter Field, Corner of Shepherd Street and Bennett Road St Marys Enquiries: John Sipsak 0406 914 332 - Registrar Joe Youssef 0410 694 742 - President

club sponsors

cards accepted ed WW15004

the western weekender » Friday 6 February 2015

Sport

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Friday 6 February 2015 « the western weekender

36

Moore to lead ABC league coverage ABC Radio has announced that former 2GB broadcaster Andrew Moore will lead its rugby league coverage this season.

“I am delighted to announce Andrew will be joining ABC Grandstand as our lead rugby league caller,” said Justin Holdforth, Head of ABC Sport and Events.

“Andrew is an outstanding commentator and presenter, who is well known to Sydney audiences, not only for his NRL commentary, but also for his astute journalistic work on radio. Andrew will be a strong voice for rugby league on ABC Radio across all our platforms.” moore has been a regular voice on Sydney radio since starting work on commercial radio in 1985, while still in high school.

MOORE said working at the ABC is something he’s dreamt of since he was a kid.

“The history of ABC sport and its great broadcasters is almost overwhelming. Growing up I was inspired by listening to Alan Marks and Mike Stephenson calling league games in the 1980’s,” he said.

“Joining the ABC is an honour and, with the 2015 NRL season promising so much, it will be a great new challenge,” he said.

He starts later this month with the NRL All Stars match.

CRICKET

Summer may be coming to an end, but there’s still opportunities for kids to jump into cricket NATHAN TAYLOR

@natetaylor87

ummer may be winding down but Penrith kids can still get their cricket fix thanks to Cricket Australia’s junior sports program, Milo T20 Blast.

On the back of a record-breaking Big Bash League, thousands of boys and girls around the country will take part in the T20 Blast.

The T20 Blast bridges the gap between MILO in2Cricket and junior club cricket.

The program introduces kids aged seven to 12-years-old to real games of T20 in a fun, inclusive and action-packed environment where they’ll develop the skills learnt from Milo in2Cricket and build their passion for the sport.

Sydney Outer West Senior Development Officer, Jonathan Lees, said he was excited about how the T20 Blast program could build passion for cricket in the Penrith area.

“Milo T20 Blast has been a hit with kids in the past and it is clear that this program is a way of encouraging increased participation throughout the region,” he said.

The Penrith T20 Blast has a free ‘Come and Try’ session happening this Tuesday, February 10 from 5pm to 6.30pm at Howell Oval.

S

WANT TO KEEP YOUR HOUSE

THIS SUMMER?

Kids enjoying the Milo T20 Blast

Around the grounds CRICKET: Penrith have drawn their Round 11 match against Parramatta in the Sydney Grade Cricket competition last weekend.

Playing in a two-day match, Parramatta batted first scoring 296 runs. Penrith’s Chris Withers was a beast with the ball with 4/43.

When Penrith finally hit the crease they managed 9/276 before stumps ended play. Penrith’s Luke Morrissey was best with the bat scoring 83.

Penrith have now slipped to seventh position and will begin a two-day match against UNSW this weekend.

BASEBALL: The Penrith Panthers have extended their losing streak to two after going down to the last-placed Canterbury Vikings in the NSW State Baseball League season.

After their mid-week Round 16 clash against Canterbury was washed out, the Panthers returned to action last Sunday, losing to the Vikings 4-3.

Penrith remain third on the ladder and will play the sixth-placed Manly Eagles in Round 17 this weekend.

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FOOTBALL: The Western Sydney Wanderers Y-League side fell to Melbourne Victory last weekend 3-0.

The Wanderers will be looking to get some respect back this Saturday when they take on Perth Glory at Marconi Stadium. The Wanderers will then return to the pitch on

Wednesday evening to play their rescheduled game against the Roar in Brisbane.

Western Sydney remains in seventh position on the Y-League ladder.

BASKETBALL: The Waratah Championship League will get off to an early start this year with Penrith’s first home games scheduled for Saturday, February 21 against the Bankstown Bruins.

The Youth Men will tip-off at 2pm followed by the Championship Women at 4pm and the Championship Men at 6pm.

Meanwhile, Penrith’s Championship Men’s team performed exceptionally well at last weekend’s inaugural Elite Summer Slam, winning two games and losing one.

New signing Rhys Daley was a big hit at the tournament after the Panthers played with just five players for the entire game. Daley and Krenz Carlos kept their enthusiastic young state team opponents at bay while still managing to keep the scoreboard ticking over.

SOFTBALL: Congratulations to Penrith City Softball Association’s U17 boys and girls sides who won national championships in Canberra last month.

The future certainly looks bright with those results.

CRICKET

37

Dance Studio

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W: www.articulatedancestudio.com Articulate Dance Studio

WW15454

Stuart Ayres with players from the Penrith Cricket Club NATHAN TAYLOR

@natetaylor87

ess than five months after the Weekender exclusively revealed Penrith Cricket Club’s ‘wish list’ for the future, Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres has come through with the goods by granting one of those wishes to the tune of $50,000.

Penrith Cricket Club will receive the $50,000 grant as part of the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership program. It will be used for automated irrigation installation and cricket pitch renewal at Howell Oval.

Head Coach and General Manager of

L

Penrith Cricket Club, Steve Small, said the club was delighted to have Government support and in particular that of Mr Ayres.

“The club is in the next phase of developing Howell Oval into a first class venue for cricketers for western Sydney,” he said.

“With ongoing Government support and help from key cricket stakeholders (Cricket NSW and Sydney Thunder), this can be a showpiece for the game here in the west and beyond.”

Mr Ayres added: “I look forward to seeing the benefits of this upgrade for Howell Oval as it is undertaken and more importantly put into use”.

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All registrations are required to be done online through www.myfootballclub.com.au. Limited access to online registrations will be provided at the club.

You then attend with your confirmation slip and finalise payment at the Penrith Paceway, Station Street, Penrith on the following dates and times: Saturday 17 January 10 - 2pm | Saturday 31 January 10 - 2 pm Sunday 1 February 10 - 2 pm | Saturday 7 February 12 - 4 pm

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Muster Nights

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Under 5,6,7 Monday 23rd Feb 2015 Under 8,9,10 Tuesday 24th Feb 2015

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et, Penr

le Stre 2 Tinda

Under 11,12,13, Wednesday 25th Feb 2015

9/1

Under 14 - 18 Thursday 26th Feb 2015

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U 19 - AA Thursday 26th Feb 2015 All Muster Times Start at 6.30pm Meet at the back of the canteen.

Check out our website www.penrithfc.net for all details maria.lowenstein@det.nsw.edu.au

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the western weekender » Friday 6 February 2015

Articulate

Upgrades for Howell Oval as Ayres listens to wish list

Friday 6 February 2015 « the western weekender

38

Rugby League When a Wanderer met a Panther: Codes collide NATHAN TAYLOR

@natetaylor87

s the Western Sydney Wanderers prepare to play their first official A-League game in Penrith on Sunday, striker Mark Bridge says he’s open to the idea of moving more matches to Sportingbet Stadium in the future.

The St Marys junior visited the stadium on Wednesday afternoon to promote this Sunday’s A-League game against the Wellington Phoenix.

Speaking with the Weekender, Bridge said if things go well on Sunday and his side notches up their first win of the season, that he wouldn’t mind seeing more Wanderers games played in Penrith in the future.

“I’m up for that,” he admitted.

“We’ve turned Parramatta Stadium into our fortress, so it would be hard to leave there. It’s very central for everyone in the west but I’d never say never, I guess.”

Joining Bridge to help promote the game was Penrith Panthers star fullback Matt Moylan, who also liked the idea of the Wanderers playing more games out of their home ground.

“I think it’s a good idea to have more games out here,” Moylan said.

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“It allows the Penrith fans, who are also Wanderers fans, to get to games easier instead of having to travel.”

The Wanderers are yet to win a game this season and endured one of their more disappointing defeats last Sunday against Melbourne City.

Bridge said he hoped Sportingbet Stadium would be a good luck charm for the Wanderers to kick start their season.

“It’s been tough to go from the highs of winning the Asian Champions League to coming back here and not winning in 13 games. We’ve got to start winning games if we’re going to make a run for that top six,” he said.

“On Sunday we were terrible and deserved to lose. It’s about bouncing back in Penrith on Sunday.”

Moylan, who is in the midst of preparing for the start of the NRL season next month, said he couldn’t wait to catch the Wanderers in action against the Phoenix on Sunday.

“I watch a bit of A-League, I’ve been to a few games like the Sydney derbies,” he said.

“A few of the boys are pretty keen to get out here on Sunday and watch how they go.”

The Wanderers battle the Phoenix at 5pm this Sunday at Sportingbet Stadium.

Emu Plains JRLFC 2015 Registration

PLAYERS REQUIRED Under 6’s up to A Grade (Can start playing when they turn 4 years old) ALSO LOOKING FOR GIRLS WHO WANT TO PLAY FROM UNDER 6’s UP TO 17 YEARS OLD

2015 Registration Information Days All clothing can be picked up on these 3 days At Peppertree Reserve (Cnr Peppertree & Swallow Drive Erskine Park) 7th , 8th and 14th Feb — 10.00am to 3.00pm

ALL REGISTRATIONS AND PAYMENTS ARE NOW ONLINE. VISIT OUR WEB PAGE AND FOLLOW THE LINKS Training starts the week of 9th Feb. All players welcome.

See web page for times and details.

For Further Enquiries please contact: Secretary: Bill Borg — 0425 226683 Registrar: Michael Zammit — 0412 531935 Email: bill@stclairjrlc.org.au More details on our web page: stclaircomets.com.au

FREE REGISTRATION FEES FOR NEW U6>U11 PLAYERS Registration Dates

• Saturday 7th Feb 1pm/4pm

at New Dimensions Health Club, 4/32 Leonay Parade, Leonay

• Sunday 15th Feb 10am/2pm at Leonay Oval • Saturday 21st Feb 10am/2pm at Leonay Oval (Skills Day) You can pickup shorts & socks on all the above dates New players must bring a passport photo & original birth certificate to be sighted plus a photocopy of the birth certificate.

All returning 2014 Emu Plains JRLFC players must register online at http://bit.ly/emurego2015 Visa and Mastercard accepted 2015 Registration Fees

New Mini & Mod Rugby League Players (Under 6’s - 11’s) - $45 Mini Rugby League Players (Under 6’s, 7’s & 8’s) - $100 Mod Rugby League Players (Under 9’s, 10’s, 11’s) - $120 Int Rugby League Players (Under 12’s - U15’s) - $130 Int Rugby League Players (Under 16’s - 17’s) - $140

All NEW players will be required to provide a Birth Certificate or Passport to be sighted.

FREE SHORTS, SOCKS & POLO SHIRT WHEN REGISTRATION FEES PAID

Includes:Shorts, Socks, NSWRL Player Insurance

A Grade and C Grade training on Tuesday and Thursday 6.30pm at Solander Drive St Clair.

A Grade Coach: Bobby Bright – 0401 855278 MAJOR SPONSOR – ST MARYS RSL CLUB

Mark Bridge and Matt Moylan. Photo Melinda Jane

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Free socks & shorts for returning 2014 players & new U12>U17 players REGISTRAR- Jodi Grant: 0412 096 006 SECRETARY-Joanne Vella :0410 439 348

www.emuplainsjrlfc.com.au

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39

FOOTBALL

Ante Covic Still searching for first win

FOOTBALL

Once again not the result the club wanted on Sunday afternoon losing to Melbourne City 2-1, but was there a better vibe out there this time around or did it feel the same like before the Asian Cup break?

It felt different because we had a number of new players coming in, but we can’t be using excuses. We’re 13 games into the season now and results are the only thing we need. The game on the weekend, we didn’t produce – plain and simple. We weren’t good enough to win that game, City deserved everything they got. It was another disappointing result and I’m not going to sugar coat it in any way. The positives out of it were our new players, who are very good especially the two Japanese boys, and the more game time they have will see us improve. I have no doubt this team will get better with time.

What was coach Popovic’s reaction to the effort put in?

I think everyone was disappointed after the game including the coaches. We did put in a lot of hard work during that three week break, including going to Coffs Harbour, and Popa wasn’t happy with the

result on Sunday. We got dominated in every facet against Melbourne City and that’s something that can’t happen if we want the three points.

It must be good to have someone like Brendon Santalab back and hopefully Tomi Juric and Matthew Spiranovic soon too, to get some cohesion and star power again?

Those types of players definitely help.

Santa returning from injury was fantastic, but you have to remember he hasn’t played a game in about three months and has to get back up to speed. We do have Spira coming back soon as well as Tomi and Romeo (Castalan). These players are professional enough and have been playing at the highest level enough to know what’s needed. We have some new players coming in as well as some coming back and, when that happens, we’ll definitely be stronger. There’s not any belief we can’t make something from this season, there’s still belief in this squad and we still have half the season left to go.

You play Wellington in Penrith on Sunday,

ST MARYS CONVENT SOCCER CLUB 2015 Season Registration Information

Lastly, what did you make of Australia’s remarkable win in the Asian Cup? In so many ways, the Asian Cup result was great for football in this country. It was great because it put Australian football on the world map internationally and on a club level, thanks to us. I’m over the moon for my teammates Spira and Tomi as well as the other boys I know in that Socceroos team. Australia, as a footballing nation, deserved something like this and I couldn’t be prouder.

Have a question for Ante next week?

Tweet it to @WWPenrith and we’ll ask it!

WINTER 2015 REGISTRATIONS Tuesday Evenings - MIXED Thursday Evenings - MENS

New and returning players all welcome.

Teams available in all ages and levels!

RegistraƟons are now being taken for the winter 2015 compeƟƟons.

RegistraƟon forms available at www.penrithoztag.com.au or call 0421448158.

Thinking about registering? There are two ways: ONLINE:

Online registrations are encouraged and available from 5th January 2015

CompeƟƟon Starts Tuesday 21st April 2015 for Mixed Thursday 23rd April 2015 for Men’s RegistraƟon Dates The Kingsway Fields Werrington from 10am - 1pm Saturday 28th February and Saturday 7th Marchl 2015

Visit: myfootball.com.au Refer to club’s website for details http://www.nepeansoccer.com.au/stmarysconvent/

Call us on 0421448158 to organise registraƟons if you cannot make the above dates

DOWN AT THE FIELD: For those that are unable to register online or want more information, the following registration days are available:

Cost is $100 per senior player and $75 for U/18 (min 10 players per team)

Where: Myrtle St Fields, Claremont Meadows When: Saturday 31/1, 7/2 & Sunday 1/2, 15/2 10am til 2pm each day

Professionally administered compeƟƟon, prize money paid to all winners/runners up.

We also enter RepresentaƟve Teams into a number of tournaments.

All registered players welcome to trial WW15556

For information contact either Mark Bennett 0412466646 Or email stmarysconvent@iprimus.com.au

could a change of scenery be just what the doctor ordered for your team?

Pirtek Stadium has been our home and it always feels good to be there but on Sunday we’ll be in another region of western Sydney where we’ve played before and know the stadium well. We know our fans are going to come out and support us regardless of how we’ve gone this season.

Technically we are at home, it’s where all our supporters are from, the west, and it’ll certainly feel like a home game.

The Western Sydney Wanderers said goodbye to a favourite son last weekend as foundation player Kwabena Appiah departed the Club after a mutually agreed contract termination.

Announced as one of the Wanderers first three signings on day one, Appiah has grown from a wide-eyed teenager into a confident and experienced campaigner; highlighted by winning the Club’s 2014 AFC Champions League Player of the Year award.

Playing in a number of the Wanderers’ memorable matches, including starting in the Champions League Final, Appiah appeared 38 times for the Red & Black.

Wanderers CEO John Tsatsimas said Appiah’s story holds a special place in the Club’s history.

“Kwabena is one of the Club’s success stories; signed as a local western Sydney boy, he is now an accomplished Hyundai A-League player and Asian Champion,” said Tsatsimas.

“It has been a pleasure to watch Kwabena grow as a player and as a person and we wish him nothing but the best for the rest of his career.

“Kwabena will never be forgotten by the fans, staff or teammates and he leaves us with great memories and a lot of smiles.”

Also leaving the Wanderers is Daniel Mullen. He played nine matches with the Wanderers and signed in February last year.

Check out www.penrithoztag.com.au for further details or contact Sue on 0421448158 Web: www.penrithoztag.com.au Email: penrith@oztag.com.au Phone: 0421448158

Be part of a Western Sydney soccer club with over 50 years of rich playing history in the local area

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the western weekender » Friday 6 February 2015

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Friday 6 February 2015

Cranebrook’s history maker Renee McElduff brushes aside Olympic disappointment to create sporting history NATHAN TAYLOR

THE NEW WEBER

the western weekender // www.westernweekender.com.au

@natetaylor87

ore than 16,000km may have separated them on Sunday morning but that didn’t stop Cranebrook mother Glenda McElduff from watching her daughter Renee create Australian sporting history in Lake Placid, New York.

Last weekend Renee McElduff became just the sixth Australian woman in history to record a World Cup win in aerial skiing.

Speaking with the Weekender, Renee’s mum Glenda, who was bursting with pride, said she was forced to watch her daughter win the biggest event of her career via live scoreboard updates on the Internet.

“They don’t stream the event live online, so we were just sitting there watching a computer screen waiting for the scoreboard to refresh,” she said.

“It just doesn’t seem real; she’s just this little girl from the west competing against the world’s best. I don’t know what it is with Australians but they do something right with their aerial skiers… there’s been some big names before her.”

The 23-year-old local joins the likes of champion aerial skiers in Jacqui Cooper, Alisa Cam-

M

Renee McElduff (centre) with runners-up Veronika Korsunova and Hanna Huskova plin, Lydia Lassila and Laura Peel as the only Aussie women to achieve such a feat.

McElduff’s incredible victory comes nearly a year after she just missed out on a place in the Australian Winter Olympic Team that competed in Sochi, Russia, last February.

“Renee actually qualified for the Winter

Olympics but Australia could only send four athletes over and she was number five,” Renee’s mum said.

“We’re absolutely stoked because we know the heartbreak she went through missing out on the Olympics... to come out and do what she did on Sunday was just amazing for her.”

Monday-Friday 8am-5pm • Saturday 8am-4pm • Sunday 10am-2pm

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