Nepean News 10 April 2026 DIGITAL

Emergency foster carers receive first boost to crisis payment in over 20 years

THE Minns Labor Government is boosting support for emergency foster carers by more than doubling the immediate crisis care payment, recognising the vital role foster carers play when children need a safe home urgently.

Emergency foster carers provide safe and loving homes for children or sibling groups at short notice, while child protection caseworkers find a longer-term placement. The crisis payment is intended to help carers with essential items such as clothing, nappies, food and other immediate necessities.

Emergency foster carers with the Department of Communities and Justice will receive $200 for each child to cover immediate purchases, up from $75 and the first increase to the payment in over two decades.

All foster carers are provided with an ongoing Care Allowance, along with additional financial and practical support to assist with the care of children. This year, the Minns Labor Government delivered foster carers their first real increase to the allowance in over two decades, boosting the fortnightly payment by 20 per cent. A carer for a typical 14-year-old is now more than $4500 better off each year.

The emergency crisis payment

increase is part of broader changes to ensure more support is available whenever a child is placed into outof-home care with minimal notice, whether during business hours or overnight, improving consistency and fairness across the State.

The increase to the emergency payment responds directly to feedback from carers and Carer Advisory Groups. It builds on substantial reforms to improve support for foster carers including paid parental leave for public sector workers, increased investment in training, and independent assistance and advocacy.

The NSW Government is calling on more people to consider opening their homes and hearts by becoming a foster carer. For more information, visit nsw. gov.au/fostercare or call 1300 770 240 Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm.

Minister for Families and Communities, Kate Washington said:

“Emergency foster carers do something truly remarkable. They care for children in crisis at short notice, providing them with a safe and loving home when they need it most.”

“When we came to government, I heard from foster carers that they

STREET CLOSURES

hadn’t felt valued in years. Our reforms are designed to value and respect foster carers as key partners in keeping children safe.”

“This is a practical reform that reflects what carers have been asking for. Step by step we are delivering systemic improvements to make a difference for foster carers and improve outcomes for kids in care.”

CEO for Carers for Kids NSW, Renee Leigh said:

“Emergency Carers open their home at a moment’s notice to children arriving at their door with minimal belongings. Carers in our Carer Advisory Groups have raised the need for addressing set-up payments to assist carers purchasing immediately needed necessities including clothing and nappies. It is a win that their requests are being actioned, so they can sustain their vital roles.”

Department of Communities and Justice Secretary Michael Tidball said:

“Emergency carers play a critical role in providing immediate stability and safety for children at a time of crisis.

“This increase acknowledges the realities carers face when bringing a child into their home at short notice and strengthens our ability to support them to provide care that is safe, stable and responsive to children’s needs.”

Due to the above events, we have been given permission to close off a number of streets in the Penrith CBD. The full list of street closures appears below.

SPECIAL NOTE:

ANZAC SUNDAY SERVICE starts from Castlereagh Street and down High Street at 2.45pm.

Masters Car Park entrance (Woodriff Street closed & Astina building driveway closed to all in/out traffic access). Judges Car Park entrance/exit is only via Station Street access until 5.00pm.

ANZAC DAWN SERVICE - Memory Park official ceremony starts with the silent march from Castlereagh Street and down High Street at 4.45am and the official Ceremony commences 5am.

Masters Car Park entrance (Woodriff Street closed & Astina building driveway closed to all in/out traffic access).

Judges Car Park entrance/exit is only via Station Street access until 7am.

For more information phone the City of Penrith RSL Sub-branch on 4728 5227.

Celebrate Youth Week 2026 at City Park

CELEBRATE Youth Week at City Park with a free party hosted by Penrith City Council on 17 April 2026 from 10am to 2pm.

Join in for a day packed with exciting games, live music that will get everyone dancing and free workshops to spark your creativity. Plus enjoy a free barbecue and delicious snack giveaways to keep you fuelled for all the action.

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said Youth Week is an opportunity for Penrith’s young people aged 12 to 24 to come together, share ideas and showcase their talents.

“Youth Week is all about inspiring young people to chase their dreams and take bold steps to make them a reality,” Cr Carney said.

“I’m proud to celebrate the young people of Penrith with a free party at City Park. Grab your mates for an awesome day of entertainment, freebies and fun. Then soak up the wealth of talent in our community with live musical performances and creative workshops.”

Youth Week is an initiative of the NSW Government, held from 16-26 April 2026, for people aged between 12 and 24.

The theme for NSW Youth Week 2026 is ‘Dream. Dare. Do.’ This theme encourages creativity and courage, inspiring young people to dream big and take real steps to make those dreams happen.

Youth Week at City Park is funded by Penrith City Council in partnership with the NSW Government.

Bring your family and friends to Youth Week at City Park to celebrate and inspire the amazing young people in our community.

Date: 17 April 2026

Time: 10:00am to 2:00pm

Location: City Park, corner of Henry Street and Station Street in Penrith

To find out more, visit penrith.city/ youthweekatcitypark

95B STATION ST, PENRITH

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Start a conversation about healthy ageing

THIS April Falls Month, Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District is encouraging people to talk more about falls and simple interventions to improve balance and strength to reduce the risk of a fall.

In NSW, 30% of people aged over 65 fall each year, and 37% of injury related deaths are caused by falls.

Beginning 1 April, April Falls Month is themed, Let’s Talk About Falls - Staying Safe Starts with a Chat and aims to break the stigma around talking about falls by encouraging conversations to help older people access appropriate care and early interventions.

Across our Local Health District, community health settings and aged care providers will be encouraging families, carers and health professionals to start simple, proactive conversations when they notice signs that someone may be at risk of a fall.

Some early signs to look out for include:

Unsteadiness when walking

Holding onto furniture while walking around the home

Signs of feeling unwell

Unexplained bruising

Confusion or changes in alertness.

When these signs are noticed, a simple conversation can make all the difference. Small, practical changes such as strength and balance exercises, medication reviews, vision checks or home safety adjustments can significantly reduce fall risk and help older people remain safe, independent and confident.

The Clinical Excellence Commission has collaborated with the NSW Fall Prevention and Healthy Ageing Network to produce a range

of April Falls resources for patients, families, carers and health staff.

Clinical Excellence Commission Senior Improvement Lead Briony Chasle said falls prevention starts with awareness and action.

“Falls can have a serious impact on an older person’s health, independence and confidence,” Ms Chasle said.

“But falls are not inevitable. When we notice early signs of risk and start a supportive conversation, we create an opportunity for early intervention and practical strategies that help people stay safe and steady on their feet.

“Many older people worry that admitting to a fall means losing their independence. In reality, talking about falls is one of the most important steps we can take to protect independence. A simple chat can lead to small changes that make a big difference.”

Poor balance and strength are factors that affect a person’s mobility and increase their risk of a fall. By improving balance and strength, people can reduce their risk of falling and fall-related injuries by 23%.

To find local physical activity and healthy lifestyle programs, including fall prevention programs, visit the Active and Healthy exercise directory.

Information and advice to support older adults to be more active is also available on the Active and Healthy website. This includes homebased exercise circuits designed for beginners to follow along at your own pace from the comfort of your own home.

For out more about April Falls Month visit NSW Fall Prevention and Healthy Ageing Network: https://fallsnetwork.neura.edu.au/ aprilfalls2026/

Helping hands

THE Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Westmead Hospital was delighted to receive a cheque from Life’s Little Treasures. The NICU staff joined forces with the foundation for the Mighty Trek Challenge fundraising event.

The unit raised more than $4,150, which will go towards a new recliner which will enable skin-toskin cuddles and breastfeeding.

Skin to skin cuddles help babies adjust to life outside the womb and play an important role in supporting parent–infant bonding. It also

benefits breastfeeding by encouraging more milk production and calms and relaxes both mother and baby.

Many of our babies are critically unwell and may have equipment such as breathing tubes or intravenous lines attached, which can be overwhelming for families. By providing a more comfortable and supportive environment during skin to skin cuddles, we can help make these moments more positive and enjoyable for parents.

A warm hug in a trying time

WITH the cost-of-living crisis so relevant in Australia, there are more people doing it tough than ever before.

The Think Outside the Square (TOTS) Blanket Challenge, a registered charity covering the Western Sydney region, has spent the past decade harnessing the power of community to craft blankets for those most in need.

Through the dedication of its volunteers, TOTS has delivered thousands of handmade blankets to people facing some of life’s toughest challenges, offering a simple but powerful reminder that they are not alone.

TOTS supports the homeless, domestic violence survivors, youth in crisis and cancer patients. Each blanket provides more than just warmth. It represents kindness, connection and the reassurance that even a complete stranger cares.

In their tenth year, the TOTS Blanket Challenge has set an ambitious goal of donating 1,000 blankets to our charity partners that include Westcare, Penrith Community Kitchen, Platform Youth Services, Westcare, The Haven Nepean Women’s Shelter, Linked Wentworth Housing and Cancer Wellness Support.

Running from the 1st of April until the 31st of July, the challenge invites volunteers to knit or crochet 20 x 20 cm squares. These squares are then

lovingly joined together, forming beautiful, one-of-a-kind blankets that carry the kindness of a connected community that extends from individuals and schools to retirement villages.

Since its beginnings, the TOTS community has grown into a network of more than 300 volunteers, both locally and across Australia, a testament to the power of a shared purpose.

Last year Canley Vale Public School generously donated 12 Blankets. “With the principal’s full support, we launched a workshop that ran every Tuesday afternoon,” stated Sally Quan, the Schools as Community Centres Facilitator. “What started as a small idea quickly grew into something beautiful.”

Debbie O’Connor, the president of the TOTS Blanket Challenge, says she is continually inspired by the compassion and dedication of the community behind the stitch. “Every year we meet more and more volunteers who share their stories of why they have joined the challenge. It’s always interesting to hear how the challenge means just as much to them as it does to those who receive the blankets.”

If you would like to participate in helping them reach their goal for 2026, head to www.totsblanketchallenge. org.au

Melissa McIntosh MP: NDIS complaints jump 90 per cent

LINDSAY MP Melissa McIntosh says abuse and neglect complaints within the NDIS have surged by more than 90 per cent, yet three years after the landmark independent ‘Working together to deliver the NDIS’ report was handed down, the Albanese Government still hasn’t issued a response.

Ms McIntosh, who is also Shadow Minister for the NDIS, said while the government stalls, vulnerable Australians are paying the price.

“The data is clear: Abuse and neglect complaints within the NDIS have soared from 2.3 per 1,000 participants in 2021–22 to 4.4 in 2024–25,” Mrs McIntosh said.

“And one clear reason is the failure to deliver universal provider registration, leaving around 94 per cent of providers in the NDIS unregistered and the system exposed to risk.

“How can Australians trust the Albanese Government to fix, overhaul and restore integrity in the NDIS when it cannot even respond to the review meant to guide its reform? The government is hiding behind ‘consultation’ because it either has not done the work, or it does not have the answers.

“When the NDIS report was released on 7 December 2023, then NDIS Minister Bill Shorten said the Albanese Government would ensure

‘every dollar’ reaches participants. But recent decisions show how far the “Sex offenders, rapists and paedophiles are accessing highvalue NDIS packages, some worth more than $1 million. Australians are right to question the Scheme when taxpayer-funded support is approved for offenders in prison, despite clear warnings this is not what the NDIS was designed to fund.

“Seeing taxpayer-funded support flow to cases like this while vulnerable Australians miss out is unacceptable.

“The government has promised to rein in costs without explaining how. They set a growth target of 8 per cent in 2023 and 5-6 per cent in 2025, yet funding has continued to climb – from

$44.65 billion to $50 billion this year, around 10.7 per cent growth. This is not a system being brought under control. It is spiralling.”

Mrs McIntosh said the Government’s failure to respond to the Review is now holding back the very reforms needed to repair the Scheme.

“Foundational Supports were identified as the most urgent reform to take pressure off the Scheme, yet this remains stuck in design, as does the needs-based planning framework.

“Mandatory registration remains confined to a narrow, high-risk subset of supports, leaving most of the market unregistered and without proper oversight, quality or safety guardrails despite repeated promises

to clean it up.

“The Review made it clear that all 26 recommendations and 139 supporting actions must be delivered as a package to create a fairer system. Without a response, the system cannot work as intended.”

Mrs McIntosh said the human cost of the Albanese Government’s failure to respond to the NDIS Review is being borne by vulnerable Australians every day.

“Three years on, we now have a $50 billion system where people with real needs are still waiting, while rorts and bad actors exploit the Scheme.

“Billions of dollars are being lost to non-compliant, incorrect or fraudulent payments, yet people with genuine need – like Rachel, whose prosthetics are held together with gaffa tape, and Craig, a blind man, who can’t get a handrail – are still waiting for basic support.

“At one end, people with genuine need are being left behind. At the other, the system is being exploited.”

Mrs McIntosh said the Coalition is committed to restoring certainty and accountability to the Scheme.

“The NDIS was built to support our most vulnerable Australians; not to leave them in limbo,” she said.

“Australians deserve a clear plan; strong safeguards; and a system they can rely on. Right now, after three years of delay, they have none of that.”

FuelCheck to receive $2.2 million boost as fuel transparency compliance blitzes surge

THE Minns Labor Government will inject $2.2 million to upgrade FuelCheck and help the people of NSW manage cost-of-living pressures as compliance activity ramps up.

FuelCheck is the NSW Government’s real-time fuel price transparency tool and provides motorists with instant access to prices from around 2,400 service stations across the state. It puts power back in the hands of consumers by exposing price hikes and ending guesswork at the bowser.

At a time, when the conflict in the Middle East is disrupting global fuel supply and driving up prices, transparency and compliance in pricing strategies is an important cost-of-living relief measure for communities.

The funding will pay for upgrades including:

• Better data collection from fuel retailers, such as making it easier for retailers to enter details about fuel supply.

• Better data analysis to help Government respond to the fuel crisis.

• Design updates for a better user experience.

FuelCheck has become even more essential to NSW drivers during the current fuel supply challenges. Daily visits to the app and website were between 8,000 and 10,000 in January, but by the end of March 2026, this has risen to around 500,000 each day.

This is the latest boost to the Government’s efforts to better support NSW’s fuel supply response.

Over the last fortnight, the Government fasttracked a statewide fuel price compliance blitz to strengthen fuel price transparency and protect motorists from misleading pricing.

Around 75 per cent of stations in NSW were inspected by the beginning of April, with around

half located outside Sydney. Inspectors have carried out just under 1,800 service station inspections across the whole state during this period, issuing 93 penalty infringement notices.

Retailers who break the rules face serious consequences, including on-the-spot fines of $1,100, or Court penalties of up to $22,000 for individuals and $110,000 for corporations.

This strong enforcement action joins NSW Fair Trading’s latest efforts to better incorporate customer feedback in compliance activities and support the ACCC’s crackdown on price gouging.

To ensure businesses are properly passing on the cost savings promised by the Federal Government’s fuel excise reduction, consumers are urged to stay vigilant and report fuel price issues via FuelCheck or the NSW Fair Trading website.

This includes mismatches between bowser prices and FuelCheck listings, as well as suspected price

exploitation following the fuel excise cuts.

Consumer reports are already directly supporting compliance activity, with NSW Fair Trading issuing 24 user intelligence-based fines this week alone. Consumer feedback strengthens NSW Fair Trading’s compliance work, allowing inspectors to identify issues faster and take action sooner.

NSW Fair Trading is continuously updating its targets for inspection based on consumer complaints, intelligence and the changing conditions in the marketplace to ensure the most effective compliance response.

The Government has developed a robust inspection forward plan and expects to physically inspect the majority of NSW’s service stations in the coming weeks. As the program progresses, regional areas will remain a key target.

NSW Fair Trading continues to work closely with the ACCC, including by sharing data, to uphold strong consumer protection standards.

Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Anoulack Chanthivong said:

“Over the past two weeks, millions of NSW motorists have turned to FuelCheck to help find the best fuel price and navigate fuel supply gaps.

“This funding will allow us to make FuelCheck better for the hundreds of thousands of people who use it daily – through better data collection, stronger analysis, and streamlined user experience.

“These are uncertain times, but we want the people of New South Wales to have the utmost confidence in the real-time price transparency data provided by FuelCheck.

“Because when it comes to the cost-of-living, the Minns Labor Government’s message is clear: transparency, accountability and fairness matter.”

Hoppy Easter

SOME-bunny very special made a hop-stop through our children’s wards the past few weeks in the lead up to Easter, delivering smiles, giggles and a whole lot of joy to our young patients. It was an egg-stra sweet way to share a little Easter magic where it’s needed most.

A heartfelt thank you to our incredible staff who cared for patients throughout the long weekend. Your

dedication, kindness and compassion never go unnoticed – you truly are egg-ceptional.

We’re also sincerely grateful to the Panther Foundation and Bunnings Penrith for their wonderful generosity in donating Easter goodies for the children spending time with us. Your support helped make their stay brighter and their Easter a little more special.

Nepean / Blue Mountains Prostate Cancer Support Group – April Group Meeting

THE next Group Meeting of the Nepean / Blue Mountains Prostate Cancer Support Group will be held on Monday 20th of April, 2026 at the Leonay Golf Club, 1 Leonay Parade, Leonay, NSW 2750 commencing at 6.45pm for a 7.00pm start.

Our Guest Speaker for this meeting will be Dietician Sarah Bonnici from One point Health.

Sarah is an Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD),

who graduated from the University of Sydney with a Master of Nutrition and Dietetics, and a Bachelor of Science (Nutrition Science), Majoring in Nutrition Science and Minoring in Health.

Sarah is highly passionate about healthcare and achieving the best possible health outcomes for patients through nutrition and lifestyle.

The meeting is open to all men who may be

experiencing prostate problems or just wish to become more aware of this disease. New comers will be made most welcome.

As usual at all of our Group Meetings, partners are not only welcome but are encouraged to attend.

For further information www.prostatesupport. org.au or ‘phone the Group’s President David Wilkinson on1300 13 38 78.

50th Anniversary School ANZAC Service at Penrith Paceway

THE City of Penrith RSL sub-Branch hosted its annual ANZAC School Service at the Penrith Paceway on 31st March, marking the 50th Anniversary of school services at the venue. NSW Minister for Veterans Mr David Harris attended and acknowledged the significance of the Penrith Showground and City of Penrith RSL subBranch partnership for 50 years, after the service.

43 local Schools and approximately 2000 students, teachers and cadets attended. Montgrove College served as the host school, professionally represented by School Captains, Ms Charlotte Aldous and Ms Francesca Filamor. ‘’The School Captains really did a fantastic job,’’ stated Mr Len Halvorsen, Vice President of the sub-Branch.

TS Nepean provided the Honour Guard, David Jenkins was the bugler, Rachel Dawes and Seini Taumalolo from Penrith Anglican College sang the respective Australian and New Zealand National Anthems, supported by

the Penrith Concert Band, Penrith Anglican College Choir and the Emu Plains PS Choir.

“The whole service was and always has been a remarkable achievement, with the support of the Penrith Showground. We could not possibly conduct this type of service without their ongoing commitment and support,” Mr Halvorsent said.

“Together with the Showground staff, we have held this service for 50 years. That is 50 generations of school children that have gathered, remembered, embraced the Service and sacrifices of Veterans and their families. We hope to continue this annual commemoration for another 50.”

NB: The Hawkei Military vehicle is an Australian four-wheel-drive machine, designed for high mobility protection and versatility in military operations. It was developed by Thales Australia and was supplied for the ANZAC Service by 2nd Signals Regiment, 17th Sustainment Brigade. The Unit was established on 30th March, 2026.

Battery Rebate Change

AREMINDER of the major announcement by Minister Bowen regarding the Federal Cheaper Home battery rebate is changing. The main reasons given were the growth in average battery system sizes from 10kWhrs before the rebate started to over 20kWhrs in September and the take up resulted in around 175,000 batteries installed, and the initial allocation saw the allocation quickly deplete.

The main take-away is that there will be no changes to the current scheme until May 1, 2026, where a new sliding scale comes into play rather than the current 5 – 50kWhr range and all rebates reduce twice a year than the current one on January 1. The original figure of $2.3billion allocated to the scheme has had a

Jim’s Gems

further top-up of $4.9billion to ensure everyone has a chance to access the scheme.

To keep it simple the rebate, or the amount of battery STC’s remain at 100% for batteries up to 14kWhr’s, then 60% for the next level up to 28kWhr’s and the balance to 50kWhr’s reduces to 15%.

What does this mean to you if you are considering buying a battery next year? A 14kWhr battery system will provide you a rebate of approximately $4,212.00 until April 30 then falls to $3,420.00 for the remainder of the year. A 28kWhr battery will drop from $8,460.00 to $5,472.00 and more significantly the maximum sized re-bated battery will see a significant reduction from $15,120.00 to $6,264.00.

These are still substantial rebates and are also going to ensure that there is a sustainable continuation of the program rather than a boom bust scenario so often encountered in this industry.

As I was quoted in the press over

the weekend, “A boom-bust cycle has been a hugely impactful feature of this industry, so this sensible change that ensures the long-term viability of our sector is a huge relief and we welcome it”.

My advice? Ensure you have a properly designed battery system to suit your requirements and take additional care in the selection of the battery system as well as the

company that is selling it to you. After-all, you get one chance of accessing the rebate, so make it work for you.

Nepean Solar Solutions, which has served the community for more than a decade, says consumers should focus on energy efficiency, product quality, and trusted installation.

For more information, contact (02) 4760 0809.

Where Aesthetics Is Heading

THE aesthetic industry has changed. It’s no longer about chasing lines or adding volume—it’s about skin quality, structure, and longevity.

Hyaluronic Acid – Still the Base

Hyaluronic acid remains the foundation. It gives immediate support, hydration, and contour. But how we use it has matured—less product, better placement, more respect for natural anatomy.

Skin Boosters – The Shift to Skin Health

Skin boosters moved us away from “filling” to improving the skin itself. Hydration, glow, elasticity—patients now want healthy skin, not obvious work.

Biostimulators – Working With the Body

Biostimulators like Sculptra and Radiesse changed the game. Instead of placing volume, they stimulate collagen over time. Slower, but more natural and longer lasting.

Combination Treatments – The New Standard

We are now layering treatments:

• Structure with HA

• Collagen stimulation with biostimulators

• Skin quality with boosters

This treats the face as a whole, not in isolated parts.

What’s Emerging Now

Hybrid approaches—combining HA and biostimulation—are becoming more common. The goal is immediate refinement with long-term regeneration.

TGA Considerations (Australia)

Under the Therapeutic Goods Administration:

• These treatments are prescription-only

• Brand advertising to the public is restricted

• Information must be educational, not promotional

• A proper consultation is essential

This is about safety, transparency, and realistic expectations.

The future is subtle.

Less volume. More quality.

Less chasing age. More supporting the skin.

We’re no longer just injectors—we’re working with the biology of ageing, not against it.

Our District’s History

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

PENRITH Selective High School was first opened in the 1930s as an intermediate school on the land next to its current location (now Penrith Public School). The school’s location at that time was occupied by a mansion known as The Towers. During the 1940s, the mansion and the land was sold to the Department of Education who demolished the mansion and built Penrith High School, officially established in 1950. Two of the original foundations of the mansion have said to be preserved and remain in the school grounds. A former student of the school was Grigor Weston Taylor, born in Penrith in 1943. After finishing school, he became an English teacher at Penrith and then at Marist Brothers at Westmead, later becoming an actor in the early 70’s when he starred in 99 episodes of Matlock Police as Senior Detective Alan Curtis. He portrayed Steve Hamilton an English high school teacher in Silent Number and Greg Walker in Glenview High. He took many other parts in Australian television series such as A Country Practice, Homicide, Special Squad, City West, The Flying Doctors, Butterfly Island, Dearest Enemy and Mission Impossible (1988) and feature films including High Rolling (1977), Mad Max 2 (1981), and Afraid to Dance (1989). In 1952, Penrith High School established the 323 Squadron of the Royal Australian Air Force with 30 cadets. After Penrith High the Squadron moved in close proximity to locations with historic relevance to the RAAF. Later in 1971 the unit moved to the former RAAF property at 121 Dunheved Circuit in St Marys that was a former casualty station attached to the munitions factory and referred to as “the morgue”. The Squadron remained there until early 2001 when the unit moved to a temporary facility at the Defence Establishment at Orchard Hills. Finally in late 2001 the unit moved to its location at the RAAF Base at Glenbrook and is part of the City of the Blue Mountains. Today the Dunheved area north of St Marys is an industrial and commercial estate with expanding suburbs and over a century of growth, and an ever-changing appearance. But before this it was timbered and later cut down and made into grazing land for sheep and other animals. In 1941 the area was taken by the Government to build the large Munitions factory with close access to the railway, the Great Western Highway and water and was seen as being a desirable location that gave it some security from attack. The large and sprawling munitions factory was built as a part of a state-wide network of factories spanning as far as Tamworth, Wagga Wagga and Broken Hill. In 1943 additional infrastructure was built to produce phosphorus bombs for the RAAF and a mostly female work force worked a 6-day week.

(Penrith Research Library has a glass enclosure with a replica of the women’s uniform worn at that time, sewn by the Encore Historical Sewing Group at St Marys). After the war as the operations at Dunheved started to wind down, some of the buildings were used, a migrant hostel was established and the factory space leased to private owners. Some of the original buildings of the factory still stand to this day. In the 1950’s with the outbreak of the Korean war, and the beginning of the Cold War the former Munitions works in Dunheved were not reused due to the influx of private enterprise, and new premises were established along with a large testing area that reached west to the Northern Road. In Glenbrook

the area surrounding the current RAAF Base also has a long history of being owned by a politician and shipping magnate. In 1930 the art deco designed “Lapstone Hill Hotel” was established and offered great views of the Sydney basin area overlooking Penrith and St Marys. With the outbreak of World War Two the hotel was offered to the Government in 1950 and the Eastern Area Command, originally in the Sydney suburb of Edgecliff, moved to Glenbrook due to the generous radio coverage of the Sydney basin and the hotel was originally used for Air Command until 1980 when various alterations were added with the Airmen’s, Sergeant’s quarters and the headquarters of the Air Command building, close to the front gate. With further works in 1994 the hotel, keeping the art deco style, was converted into the officer’s mess. Following a decision to relocate the Squadron, a former workshop of RAAF Base Glenbrook opposite the front gate was refurbished to accommodate the cadets. With air conditioning, classrooms and stores created to service the needs of about 75 cadets and staff. The headquarters of Air Command remains a vital part of the Royal Australian Air Force and with the Final Parade held at the base since 2002 it allowed for Polair to land at the helicopter landing pad for a Careers Day event and in 2016 the Freedom of the City challenge was conducted outside the front of the officer’s mess where the Squadron was officially granted Freedom of the City of Blue Mountains by Mayor Councillor Mark Greenhill OAM, citing various community service work and the commendation for their efforts during the 2013 Winmalee bush fires. The Glenbrook Tunnel - The original tunnel was built in 1891 and originally built to compliment the Lapstone Zig Zag railway that existed east of the unit’s position. Following the construction of the tunnel, difficulties were encountered. The loss of labourer Thomas Lawless was killed in January 1892 during a blasting operation when a gang of four men were working at their usual places and had finished drilling the hole, when Thomas whose duty it was to arrange the charge began ramming it with a tamping bar into the cavity when an explosion occurred and the four men in the immediate vicinity were thrown with great force to the ground. The inquest found that more drills should have been supplied and the jury found that after some deliberation returned the verdict that the death of Thomas was caused by using tools in bad condition and too small, and in forcing the powder in the hole it caused the powder to explode but they could not find any blame. Thomas’ coffin, decorated with flowers was held on the shoulders of his gang members to Penrith railway station with a large body of his fellow workmen following in procession. His body went by train to the Necropolis at Rookwood. In 1939 the tunnel was resumed for Defence during the outbreak of World War 2. In 1942 after finding out that the Japanese used Chemical Weapons, a highly secretive weapons store was established in the tunnel. In 1946 following the end of the war the weapons were disposed of in various ways but the secretive work carried out at the Tunnel, was classified long after.

Sources: NSW of Environment and Heritage – Wianamatta Conservation Plan, Lost Sydney – St Marys Munitions Factory website, NSW Office of Environment and Heritage – Glenbrook Tunnel & Mustard Gas, Wikipedia.

Savour the best of what Penrith has to offer at Penrith After Dark!

THE streets of Penrith will come alive for a bespoke evening of outdoor dining, live entertainment and late-night fun at Penrith After Dark!

Immerse yourself in the heart of the Penrith CBD for Council’s newest night-time event to be held on Saturday 2 May from 5pm to 10pm. Savour the best of Penrith’s local eateries by dining on a long outdoor dining table whilst enjoying live entertainment from musicians and roving performers.

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said he is delighted to see Penrith’s streets come alive after dark with this new event allowing the community to come together to support local businesses and artists in the area.

“By offering a captivating nighttime experience for our residents and visitors in the heart of our vibrant CBD, Penrith After Dark

embodies our vision of connecting the community with local businesses who operate within a 24-hour economy,” said Cr Carney.

“At Penrith After Dark, guests

will be engaged in a truly unique dining experience, one I’m sure our community will really enjoy. I’m proud that Council supports and creates safe events that activate our City Centre whilst stimulating our night-time economy.

“We would love to see the community enjoying and experiencing all the wonderful things our great city of Penrith has to offer, especially at night,” Cr Carney said.

Karen McKeown OAM, Member for Penrith said, “we know that vibrant streets deliver cultural, social and economic benefits. Streets are at

the heart of community life – places to meet, support local businesses, and celebrate what makes our communities unique.”

“Activating them can be challenging due to the costs and complexities of approvals and temporary road closures.

“The Permit/Plug/Play Pilot Program helps councils and organisers overcome these barriers, which means more free events for the community to enjoy.”

Penrith After Dark has been curated by Penrith City Council and funded through the NSW Government’s Permit/Plug/Play Pilot Program, which aims to reduce the cost and complexity of delivering street-based events. This event also aligns with Council’s OPEN: Penrith and St Marys 24-Hour Economy Strategy 2025-2029.

You won’t want to miss this exciting, new event! Mark your calendars as Penrith After Dark will be occurring in the heart of Penrith CBD (Memory Park, High Street and Woodriff Street) on Saturday 2 May from 5pm to 10pm.

Penrith After Dark is proudly funded by the NSW Government’s Permit/Plug/Play Pilot Program.

To find out more, visit penrith.city/ penrithafterdark

Nepean Rowing Club members shine at Australian Championships

BY NOEL ROWSELL

NEPEAN Rowing Club Rowing

Coordinator Daniel Waddell has praised the efforts of four Club members at the 2026 Australian Rowing Championships Interstate Regatta, which was held at Lake Barrington, Tasmania over the 23-29th March.

16-year-old Ellie Taylor had an impressive championship, finishing 2nd in the Women’s Under 23 Lightweight Double Scull, 2nd in the Women’s Under 23 Lightweight Quad Scull, 2nd in the Women’s Opens Lightweight Eight, 9th in the Women’s Under 21 Lightweight Single Scull and was also a member of the NSW Lightweight Quad squad in the Victoria cup.

Jason Waddell was also impressive, finishing 2nd in the Men’s Open Lightweight Quad Scull and 2nd in the NSW Lightweight Men’s Quad (Penrith cup), with the team improving on their 3rd place finish in 2025.

Nepean Rowing Club also had two excellent performers in the School’s competitions. Lara Dwyer (Loreto Normanhurst) finished 1st in the Women’s Under 17 Eight and Genevieve Bazina (Pymble Ladies College) finished 6th in the Under 19 Eight.

Rowers from the Hancock Prospecting High Performance Centre in Penrith also performed well at the Championships, with the NSW Women’s Eights retaining the John Coates AC Cup. Tary Rigney (OLY) won the Open Women’s Single Scull, ahead of Paige Barr in third, whilst Bronwyn Cox (OLY) and Georgie Rowe (OLY) won the Open Women’s Coxless Pair event, ahead of Jacqui Swick (OLY) and Giorgia Patten (OLY), with Emmie Frederico and Laura Gourley in third.

A decade of partnership with Hancock Prospecting and the leadership of Rowing Australia Patron Mrs Gina Rinehart AO was fittingly celebrated through the excitement and intensity of the racing at ARC26.

Mrs Rinehart’s enduring support has been transforming, powering Australian rowing for more than ten years, from grassroots participation through to podium success on the world stage.

The energy and quality of racing on display at the Championships served as a powerful tribute to a partnership that continues to strengthen the sport

and inspire the

Footnote: Ellie Taylor has also been selected in the 2026 NSW Junior Pathway Team, which will contest the Interstate Junior Pathway Regatta at the Sydney International Regatta Centre, Penrith on 13-14 April.

These emerging NSW stars will take on rowers from the other Australian states, with over 30 schools and clubs represented in the NSW squad, the most ever for a NSW Junior Pathway Team.

https://rowingmanager.com/au/ regattas/6778

Polo

BELLEVUE Polo (Teneille Murray, Piper Trickett, Ash Glennie, Rebecca Walters) have claimed the 2026 NSW Women’s Polo Championship title, defeating FH Polo A 6.5 - 4 in a fast-paced, thrilling final.

Ash Glennie (Bellevue Polo) was outstanding on the field, earning MVP honours and playing a crucial role in leading her team to victory.

Orange is the new Black (Mel Cochrane, Olivia McIntosh, Piper Trickett, Rebecca Walters) defeated Scone 4.5 - 3 in a thrilling B Grade Final.

Local juniors compete in Illawarra Junior Masters

BY NOEL ROWSELL

TWELVE local juniors teed off this week at Links Shell Cove in the JNJG Illawarra Junior Masters.

Penrith GC and Stonecutters Ridge GC provided the bulk of the local contingent, including Hunter McMillan Xavier Stamatakis, James Kilbourne and Cooper Lett (Penrith: Savannah Webb, Jacob Bartolome and Georgia Karagiannis (Stonecutters Ridge); Eddison Sheppard, Roy Shim (Lynwood CC), Thomas Worboys, Lincoln McGown (Richmond GC) and Noah Mcdonell (Fox Hills GC).

GIRLS: 24 starters. Savannah Webb (Stonecutters Ridge finished in 6th spot at +7, whilst Georgia Karagiannis (Stonecutters Ridge) finished +24 in T17.

BOYS: 140 starters. Xavier Stamatakis (Penrith) was the best, finishing at +14 in a tie for 55th, ahead of Roy Shim (Lynwood) +15 T59, Eddison Sheppard (Lynwood) +17 T64 Hunter McMillan (Penrith) +21 T86, Noah Mcdonell (Fox Hills) +29 105th.

The best finishers in the Age divisions were 16+ Girls - Savannah 3rd, Georgia 8th; 13 & Under Boys: Roy 3rd, Hunter 8th.

Arunga 14-goal Easter Tournament

KIM McDougall of M Polo Management reports “What an action packed Easter weekend! 33 games were played across 4 fields over 5 days.

“Huge thanks to Kurri Burri, Killarney and Windsor for helping make it happen.”

14-Goal – The winners Ellerston White (Augustin Emsens, Monty McGregor/Henry Batchelor, Will Harper, Paco O’Dwyer) were undefeated in the Round Robin. Competing 14-goal teams were Gardenvale, Arunga, Ellerston Blue and Ellerston White. 8-Goal - Kurri Burri (Harrison Marshall, Jackson Marshall, Sam Hopkinson, Jimbo Fewster) defeated Troika 8 – 7. 4-Goal Pool A - La Mia Polo (Rodrigo Castillo, Tom Parry-Okeden, James

Parry-Okeden, Aiden Nunn) defeated TravMedia 6 – 5. 4-Goal Pool BBitch Diesel Rosé (Victoria Rose, Archer Buchert, Sam Smallman, Guy Higginson) defeated Cutcliffe Polo 9 –6. 0-Goal - Hydrangeas (Ella Santosa, Jack Dowling, Toby Dowling, Monty Campbell) defeated Homewood 8 – 2. Subzero - Team Tibra (Manna Berry, Tim Berry, Rodrigo Castillo Jnr, Julio Polarolo) defeated Arunga Navy 5.5 – 4.

Next up, Windsor Polo Club hosts the low goal for the next two weeks, alongside the Morton Cup (14-goal) and Hector King Cup (8-goal). The 4-Goal competition is shaping up to be competitive, with matches played across the two weeks.

Draws will be available on the NSW Polo, Windsor Polo Club and Polo Matchmaker Facebook pages and websites.

2026 Blue Mountains Senior Classic

BY NOEL ROWSELL

THE Blue Mountains Classic Senior Order of Merit (SOOM) tournament was held at Wentworth Falls CC, Leura GC and Blackheath GC over 25-27 March.

The three clubs have joined forces to promote golf in the Upper Blue Mountains by running three-day events.

Their marketing strategy is to build the mountains as a golfing destination to compete with other weekend golf destinations.

Fifty-one golfers from twenty-three clubs outside the Blue Mountains region were represented, along with players from the three local clubs. Participating clubs included Coffs Harbour, Forster, Maitland, Newcastle, Gungahlin Lakes,

Wollongong and multiple Nepean District and Sydney clubs.

WENTWORTH FALLS 50+

Years: Scratch - Mathew Doughty (Royal Sydney - 69), Runner-up Rod Moran (Forster-Tuncurry - 72), Nett -

Col Stockley (Wentworth Falls - 69), Runner up, Adrian Pabian (Wentworth Falls – 70). Over 65s: Scratch - Mark Foley (Wentworth Falls - 77), Runnerup Russell Bunn (Maitland - 78), Nett - Graem Bush (Wenworth Falls - 72),

Runner-up Kyle Dawson (Wentworth Falls - 73c/b).

LEURA 50+ Years: Scratch – Jason McBeath (Royal Sydney69), Daniel Swain (Coffs Harbour - 70), Michael Elsworth (Muirfield - 72), Adam Neal (Wentworth Falls - 72), Scott Broadhead (Gungahlin Lakes – 75). Over 65’s: Mathew Doughty (Royal Sydney – 72), John Osborn (Forster-Tuncurry – 77), Don Dunn (Wentworth Falls – 78), Greg Climpson (Lynwood – 79), Russell Burn (Maitland – 79).

BLACKHEATH 50+ Years: Scratch – Jason McBeath (Royal Sydney – 78), Matt Doughty (Royal Sydney - 78), Nett: Colin Stockley (Wentworth Falls - 74), Keith Shaw ( - 71): Over 65’s Scratch – Michael Ebsworth (Muirfield - 70), Over 65’s Nett - Adam Merhab (70) Overall Results for the 3 Day Blue Mountains Senior Classic. Scratch winner = Jason McBeath (Royal Sydney) 214, Runner-up Daniel Swain (Coffs Harbour) 221, Nett – Albert Davis (217), Scott Broadhead (Gungahlin Lakes) 218; Over 65’s Scratch Matthew Doughty (Royal Sydney) 219, Don Dunn (Wentworth Falls) 237; Over 65’s Nett – Albert Davis 217, Kyle Dawson (Wentworth Falls) 224.

Cleary hits 200

HAs Nathan Cleary prepared to take his place among Panthers royalty in the 200game club, father and coach Ivan said he feels lucky to have been able to share a chunk of that journey with his son.

AVING coached Nathan in 142 of his 199 NRL matches and to four grand final victories, Ivan has witnessed the growth of the game’s premier playmaker both on and off the field, as a man and a matchwinner.

“It’s awesome to see Nate as a role model to young kids. Not just as a player, but he is doing a lot of good things off the field as well and just the way he carries himself a lot of kids look up to him and I know he takes that responsibility very

seriously,” Ivan told media on Wednesday.

“He has always led by his actions but his voice and understanding of the game has grown along the way and he and Isaah [Yeo] have had a great combination there.

“He was fitter than ever and as hungry as ever this pre-season and the results are showing.

“Nate has always wanted to get better and luckily he is surrounded here by lots of other blokes that are similar.”