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FREE Thursday, 12 November 2015
ISSUE 162
LEGENDS OF THE NEPEAN: P16-17 | HISTORY: P24 | MARK GEYER: P30 | HARPO’S MARKS: P32
A COMPASSIONATE
HEART YEAR six student at Penrith Christian School, Kaia Priddis has received the Fred Hollows Humanitarian Award for her compassionate and caring nature. Pictured here with PCS Principal Bruce Neville. Story p9
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Need to be heard FEDERAL Member for Chifley Ed Husic and Federal Member for Greenway Michelle Rowland have urged the government to engage in “proper and meaningful dialogue” with locals over the Western Sydney Airport draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). The pair say they have written to Deputy Prime Minister and Infrastructure Minister Warren Truss to raise their objections to Government plans to hold just a single community information session within the boundaries of the Blacktown Local Government Area (LGA). “Blacktown Council is the largest council area in the state and is also likely to be affected by the proposed flight paths – yet residents will only have one meeting, just one chance to raise their views about the proposed 24hr a day airport,” Mr Husic said. “Worse still, the meeting will be held during a workday – limiting the opportunity for residents to attend due to work and family commitments. “It seems like the government is trying to sidestep its obligations to properly consult communities affected by this airport.” The two Western Sydney Labor MPs said that the onus was on the government to address residents’ concerns and they have demanded further resident information sessions to ensure that all Blacktown LGA residents clearly understand the implications of the draft EIS. Mr Husic added, “Importantly, the additional session should be held on a weekend – as has been planned for the Penrith Council area - to
Prue Car MP
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Member for Londonderry
Ph: 9833 1122 12/82 Victoria St Werrington Mail: PO Box 4001 Werrington NSW 2747 londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au
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From the Editor’s Desk
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by Kerrie Davies
203 BANKS DRIVE, ST CLAIR OFFICE: (02) 9834 5579 Editor: Sales Manager: Journalist: Journalist: Sports Journalst: Graphic Design: Photographer: Printer: Letters to the Editor: Web:
Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644 Korena Hale 0403 045 880 Greg “Harpo” Martin 0420 655 524 Garion Thain 0430 424 101 Stewart Moses 0417 680 533 Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893 Tom Carey 0425 803 180 Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown nepeannews@aol.com www.nepeannews.com.au
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I’VE had a lion’s share of overseas jaunts of late - visiting some great destinations such as Bali, Fiji and Hawaii. During the Fiji leg I was standing at the airport check-in counter with my son and some friends of ours who are from Texas USA. My son and I caught sight of their American passports and we discussed the feeling of overwhelming American pride one would feel holding that passport in hand - with it’s proud one-eyed eagle and the brilliant star-spangles and stripes emblazoned across the background. Hell, it gave us patriotic goose bumps and we aren’t even American. It reminded us of a trip to the states back in 2007, where we drove through the residential streets of Pennsylvania. Almost every house in every street sported a flagpole at the front with a well-kept shining American flag flowing in the gentle wind. It was quite a sight to see. Fast forward to the Hawaii trip and a visit to the Pearl Harbour memorial, and the goose bumps were back again as the American anthem played and we were surrounded by upstanding hand-on-heart proud Americans. People accuse Americans of many things, but being unpatriotic is certainly not one of them. Which brings me to the point of this article, are we in danger of losing our patriotism here in Australia? We have just as much - in fact I’d argue we have a lot more - to be proud of in Australia. Yet I believe, under the veil of “equality for all” there are groups who are becoming successful in striking a blow through Australian patriotism. The types who say flying the flag is being racist and therefore think it is okay to burn it, and those who declare joining in the singing the anthem is a matter of choice. It is only a matter of time before the flag and the anthem are deemed offensive and all but gone. In striving for this all-inclusive, tolerant people, I fear the casualty will be Australia herself. Surely there is a way of being inclusive without losing all that identifies us? Our brilliant flag, our true-blue she’ll be right attitude and our national anthem are slowly but surely becoming symbols for racism and bigotry - and declaring pride in these things is earning the patriot some very ugly tags. How on earth could we allow this to happen? In the effort to appear inviting and tolerant, have we managed to trash our brand? Your thoughts? kerrie@nepeannews.com.au
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localnews local WHEN a young medical researcher was undertaking is PhD in 1997 at Nepean Hospital he had no idea that nearly 20 years later he would be asked to take an appointment to lead Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District’s new stronger commitment to supporting local research. Associate Professor Guy Eslick from the Sydney Medical School Nepean, University of Sydney has taken on the new role of Director Research to promote and help facilitate research across the District. Guy says balancing the demands of a clinical workload with the complexity of conducting research can be a challenge for health staff but he says the flow-on benefits to patient care can have an enormous impact on health service delivery. “There are some really productive groups out there doing cutting-edge research that have real clinical translation into practice for patients,” Guy says. “Research within our hospitals and in our community, mental health, drug and alcohol and allied health services is going on, but the outputs are currently unknown,” Guy says. “Some really good projects are just not ever completed.” “My role is to find out what cutting edge research is out there and then to work with the LHD to unblock barriers and streamline new processes that will help research happen more quickly and researchers see it through to the end and publish their findings,” Guy says. In 2016 the Local Health District’s research governance team will be expanded to include a
SERVICES Worship and Communion Sunday 9:30am Wednesday Fellowship Wednesday 7:30pm Dare Youth Saturday 6:30pm Healing / Revival First Friday of Month 7:30pm
Contact: (02) 9673 1009
www.newhorizonschurch.org.au
Stuart Ayres
MP
Member for Penrith
research manager and biostatistician to advise how to design research studies, support the recruitment of participants, assist with human research ethics approvals and help analyse the data to improve the outputs. Guy says the LHD’s new stronger focus is designed to identify what people need and help them find a balance between their clinical role caring for and treating patients, and the important role that research should play in their profession. Associate Professor Guy Eslick will present a keynote speech about his own research at the annual Nepean Scientific Day on Friday 13 November at the Sydney Medical School Nepean, Derby Street Kingswood.
Phone: 4722 8660 Email: penrith@parliament.nsw.gov.au Shop 23, Tattersalls Centre, 510-534 High Street, Penrith
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Researcher comes full circle
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Nepean News 12 November 2015 Issue 162
Pens down
Grants available to support volunteers
STUART Ayres MP, Member for Penrith has congratulated the 772 local HSC students as exams ended last week. Stuart Ayres said the HSC class of 2015 has worked extremely hard and should be very proud to have completed the HSC. “This is a huge moment in the lives of these students, who are marking the end of 13 years of schooling and starting a new and exciting chapter in their lives,” Stuart Ayres said. “Students have spent 18 days doing exams demonstrating their skills and knowledge and now it’s time for a well-earned break.” Students can login to Students Online to get their school assessment ranks now and will receive their HSC results on Wednesday 16 December. “Our HSC students should be extremely proud of achieving this significant milestone, regardless of what result they receive on December 16,” Stuart Ayres said.
COMMUNITY organisations in Lindsay are encouraged to apply for a grant of up to $5000 to assist the work of their volunteers. Fiona Scott MP, the Federal Member for Lindsay said the funding is being provided under a $20 million Volunteer Grant funding round, announced by the Minister for Social Services, the Hon Christian Porter MP. “This is a great opportunity for community organisations in the Nepean region to apply for a grant of between $1,000 and $5,000 to help make the work of their volunteers easier, safer and more enjoyable,” Fiona Scott said. “These grants can be used by organisations to help with costs incurred by their volunteers, and could include the cost of fuel to take seniors to the doctor, first aid training, background security checks or transport for volunteers with disability who cannot drive. “Community organisations can also purchase much-needed equipment, such as computers or printers, so they can keep pace with technology. “In many ways, volunteers are the lifeblood and the backbone of our community and I’m glad to see that our local organisations can now apply for these grants to help support their valuable work,” Fiona Scott added. In opening the Volunteer Grants 2015
Fiona lending a hand at a charity Christmas lunch.
Round, Mr Porter said this funding demonstrates the Government’s commitment to supporting the volunteers who give their time to help others and who encourage the inclusion of vulnerable people in community life. “This year’s Volunteer Grants gives priority to organisations working with individuals or communities experiencing disadvantage,
including communities affected by natural disasters—so we encourage organisations in these areas to apply,” Mr Porter said. Applications for Volunteer Grants close 2pm AEDT, Wednesday 9 December 2015. For further information go to dss.gov.au/grants. Alternatively, contact the Volunteer Grants 2015 Hotline on freecall 1800 183 374 or email vg2015@dss.gov.au.
Three decades on and never forgotten By Greg Martin
ONCE the general public became aware of the horrifying ordeal sustained by Anita Cobby on the night of February 2, 1986, there was a huge outcry for the return of capital punishment. Five men abducted the 26-yearold nurse as she walked home from Blacktown Railway Station and subjected her to what would have been a terrifying period of time before one of them ended her life in a lonely paddock in Prospect. The five men were convicted of her abduction, rape and murder and sentenced to life imprisonment without any possibility of parole but her cruel and inhumane treatment by the murderers created a groundswell of support for the reintroduction of the death penalty. Ms Cobby’s death shattered the lives of her family and friends – and indeed, the general public. Her parents, Gary and Peggy Lynch, were founders of the Victims of Homicide Support Group, a community support group that helps families deal with heinous crimes. They also campaigned in seeking
Anita Cobby’s tragic death should never be forgotten.
tougher sentencing and truth-insentencing laws which came to pass after their daughter’s murder. Garry Lynch died on September 14, 2008, aged 90, suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and Peggy, herself a former nurse, died of lung cancer in 2013, at the age of 88. The devoted couple had been married for 54 years. There are some things that will be forever etched in the memory of all Australians and the death of Anita Cobby is one of them - for all the wrong reasons.
February 2, 2016 commemorates 30 years since the murder of Anita Cobby and a fundraising dinner is now being organised on that date with proceeds directed to the Victims of Homicide Support Group. The dinner is being organised by Mark Beach in the Diamond Auditorium at Blacktown Workers Club. Guest of Honour will be Anita’s sister, Mrs Kathryn Szyszka and husband, Walter Szyszka and guest speakers are NSW Premier, Hon Mike Baird, NSW Police Commissioner,
Andrew Scipione APM and Martha Jabour, executive director of Homicide Victims Support Group NSW. The group, which has supported around 2800 families since it started in 1993, sends counsellors to homes across NSW and runs a 24-hour helpline staffed by trained volunteers. Although funded out of the State Government’s health budget, the group is independent, and therefore able to criticise policy or campaign for changes in a way that is non-partisan. Simon Bouda, Channel Nine crime reporter, will MC the dinner which has attracted a star-studded line-up of entertainment and boosting funds during the night will be a gala auction, silent auction and raffles. The entertainment includes The Eagles Show - Heart of the Matter and Mo Award-winning comedian Darren Carr will be performing with a number of his dummies. Tables of 12 cost $80 per person and dress is lounge suit for men and evening dress for the ladies. You can purchase tickets by going to Workers’ website and finding the entertainment link or through personnel at the club’s front desk. www.workersclub.com.au
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High tea LOCAL not for profit organisation, Nordoff Robbins Music Therapy is holding their popular Café Series “High Tea” event at Belle Saveur Patisserie on Sunday December 6. This event is a lovely relaxing afternoon with great music provided by ‘International School of Music and amazing food provided by chef and owner Justin Baker. Brenda Simmonds, Practice Manager of the Nordoff Robbins and event organiser explained that “Funds raised will be going to our Sandra Cogswell scholarship in honour of her generosity and the amazing work that she did to spread the word about Nordoff Robbins and the life changing music therapy we deliver.” “The money from this scholarship will be applied to clients who may otherwise not have the financial means to contribute the full scheduled fee to enable us Nordoff Robbins to extend music therapy to a wider population.” Brenda further explains, “as a not for profit organisation that receives no government funding we rely on the generosity of the community to fund our music therapy practice which assists some of the most disadvantaged in our community. We would really appreciate everyone’s support in getting behind this event.” Bookings are essential and can be purchased by calling our office on 4736 0240.
Pollinators in peril AROUND the globe, pollinators are under threat and it is hoped Pollinator Week from November 15-21 will raise awareness of this world-wide problem. Pollinators are doing it tough for a number of reasons because as we urbanise our environments we remove their natural habitat; we create ‘flowerless landscapes’ when we substitute concrete and grass for flowering trees and shrubs; and our agricultural practices, such as monoculture, remove the variety of floral resources that pollinators need for good health. The future of our pollinators is looking bleak. By simply raising the awareness of the importance of pollinators in our ecosystem, we may have a chance of improving their future. We can also improve their future by: • conserving their natural habitat; • providing additional habitat; • planting pollinator-attracting plants; and • reducing or ceasing the use of pesticides. So why are pollinators so important? All organisms are driven to reproduce and because plants are not mobile, they require animal vectors to aid this process. Through pollination, ovules are fertilised and seeds develop. Almost 90% of flowering plants rely on animals
Pollinators like this bee are under threat globally.
for pollination. Pollination is the driving force behind plant reproduction. This, in turn, enhances biodiversity which promotes ecological stability. The most effective and well known pollinators are bees, because they actively collect pollen from flowers to feed their off-spring. As they do this they transfer thousands of pollen grains between flowers. There are, however, many thousands of other animals that ‘incidentally’ transfer pollen as they drink nectar from flowers. These include insects such as beetles, flies, butterflies, ants, wasps, moths, as well as small animals such as birds, bats and marsupials.
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F A S H I O N S
Recognised for her caring and compassionate nature By Kerrie Davies
KAIA Priddis is a shining example of being considerate and compassionate to the plight of others, and her efforts have been recognised with her receiving the Fred Hollows Humanitarian award recently at Penrith Christian School. Kaia, a year six student and daughter of local footy legend Luke Priddis and his wife Holly, strongly advocates caring about others and raising awareness on the challenges that some children face of a daily basis. And her inspiration is in one of those children who face such challenges her older brother Cooper - who was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder when he was two and a half. Kaia approached her school principal a couple of years ago about hosting a “blue day for Autism” which was a great success and has been replicated for the last two years. “I got the go ahead and encouraged all the students to wear blue in order to promote awareness for people with Autism,” Kaia said. “It was so great to see so many kids turn up in blue. Many wore fancy costumes and we gave a prize to the
Kaia Priddis with proud mum Holly
best costume; which was someone who dressed up as a blue clown.” Kaia said the idea came to her when she was thinking of ways to help her Mum and Dad with the Luke Priddis Foundation. Other components of her caring nature that resulted in her award were her participation in guide dog training and in the school’s anti-bullying program. “We teach the guide dog, Inky, to obey commands such as stay, sit and lay down. It can be challenging
because Inky wants to be a puppy!” Kaia said. “I also enjoy taking part in our anti-bullying chapel. It’s a discussion session where we talk about our experiences and what we should do to stop to it happening to others. “If everybody made an effort to be kind to others, not say mean things about others and look at the positives in everybody we could stop bullying.” A very humble girl, Kaia grudgingly admits that she has made a difference that she should be proud of and that
she sets a great example to younger students in her school. But Kaia is quick to add that she has faults like anybody else. “I can be a bit of a sticky beak,” she laughs. Kaia hopes to be a veterinary surgeon when she grows up, a goal she says was boosted by Inky the guide dog. Mum Holly said she is extremely proud of Kaia’s beautiful heart. “Kaia is a very compassionate child, so yes that makes us very proud of her. She was the driving force behind promoting awareness of Autism at her school and she has even spoken publically about having a sibling with Autism; not an easy thing for a kid to do,” Holly said. For the thousands of children in Australia with ASD, early intervention services are vital. The Luke Priddis Foundation is excited to be building an early intervention centre in Penrith in 2016. These services help kids learn vital skills like how to talk, read, write, draw, and even how to play with other children. These skills give them a better chance at independence as they grow up. For more information visit: www. lukepriddisfoundation.com
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Housing boost
Ready to back Dylan By Garion Thain
MPs Tanya Davies and Stuart Ayres have announced that local community groups, councils, charities and private organisations can apply for grants of up to $50,000 to create stronger social housing communities. The one-off grants available to our local community form part of the NSW Government’s Social Housing Community Improvement Fund - a three-year, $20million commitment to build stronger social housing communities. Grants will be awarded to organisations in our community for projects that could include the development or upgrade of communal gardens, playgrounds, basketball courts, skating ramps and meeting areas that provides opportunities for our community to come together. “This is all about turning social housing areas into strong, vibrant communities that our residents are proud to call home,” Mr Ayres said. “The money can also be used for developments that improve resident safety such as disability access, fencing or lighting and that help integrate social housing with the surrounding community,” Mrs Davies added. “I encourage all local organisations with a passion for improving the community to apply so we can create better living environments for everyone in Penrith and Mulgoa.” Applications for SCHIF projects must be made online at https://socialhousing.smartygrants.com.au/SHCIF2015 from Monday 9 November until Friday 18 December 2015, with projects required to be completed before 31 March 2017. For more information visit: www.facs.nsw.gov.au/SHCIF
DYLAN Camilleri of St Clair is preparing to shoot off to represent New South Wales at the 2015 Pacific School Games this month, and his parents are preparing to make the trip to Adelaide to back him. Nepean News visited the Camilleri family in September to speak about Dylan’s lifelong footy career and achievements, spanning since he was four years old to now, at 15, where he is about to represent his state. Dylan isn’t shy of giving all his time to football, currently alternating between playing league in winter and representing Penrith touch in summer, as well as playing wing for St Pat’s, too. One of his spectacular recent achievements is playing for the NSW CCC side. One of the reasons the Camilleri family are so proud of Dylan, and why it’s so great to support him, is because of the time and pure effort he dedicates. His mother mentioned at the most recent meeting just the amount of time he’s set aside this year, and for a 15 year old teen it’s quite commendable. “He’s always focused on whatever he’s doing,” said Mrs Camilleri. “He only sets one weekday and Sundays off for himself. He’s had pneumonia twice recently but still rocks up to every training session.” The culmination of this time and effort is
The countdown for Dylan Camilleri’s trip to Adelaide to represent NSW at the Pacific School Games is heading closer to zero hour.
Dylan’s placement at the Pacific School Games. The games, described as a “school version” of the Commonwealth Games by his parents, is one of the top competitions an athlete Dylan’s age can partake in, and Dylan’s family is excited to join him on this journey. However getting there could be more difficult than it seems on the surface. “Accommodation for three, four people – for an extended period of time – it adds up,” said Dylan’s father, Peter. The Camilleri family say they are prepared to spare no expense to support Dylan because of “how much he puts in himself” but admit the costs of travel can be particularly cumbersome. Both parents are optimistic enough to firmly believe that Dylan will make the Australia team. Mr Camilleri and Dylan’s family have asked if the Nepean community could help them cover the cost of attending the Pacific School Games, if they want to support Dylan’s career. More information will become available online on our Facebook page, Nepeannews Nepeannews, when it becomes available.
Three things to consider this Christmas
Nepean
Veterinary REPORT
with Dr Antony Karolis and the team at WellPet Vets phone 1300 WELLPET
Senior Veterinarian and CEO WellPets Vets Mountains, Nepean and St Clair
WITH only 6 weeks until Christmas, many of us are beginning our preparations for the big day! Whilst we scurry around and prepare for our Christmas parties and end of year get togethers, Veterinary hospitals, shelters and welfare groups prepare for something very different. This weeks article will highlight 3 of many things, as pet lovers, we should all consider this Christmas. WellPet Vets work very closely with over 20 welfare organisations. These groups are run by volunteers that dedicate their time to the health and wellbeing of all sorts of animals that find themselves without homes. One of these organisations is No Kill Pet Rescue. NKPR is a not for profit organisation established in 2009 that dedicate their time to saving animals on death row from shelters and pounds. They help to place them in foster housing until they find their forever homes. We asked NKPR what they go through at this time of year, and what are some things people should consider this Christmas. We also spoke to the team at WellPet Vets and we agreed that the following are 3 (of many) things that should be considered at Christmas time in relation to owning a pet. 1. Pets Are Not Gifts. Every year there is an increase in Puppies and kittens bought as surprise presents for family members or
friends. Owning a pet is a commitment and a responsibility that should never be taken lightly or without consent. Purchasing a pet for a family member without their consent or understanding of this commitment often results in unwanted pets surrendered to shelters and pounds. 2. Desex Your Pets. Spring and Summer are key breeding times for Cats and Dogs, in particular Cats. Every year our shelters and pounds are inundated with litters of kittens that are in need of homes. If you own a pet, we recommend desexing between the ideal ages of 4-6 months. However desexing your pet at any age will help to reduce unwanted pregnancies as well as a range of other health benefits. For more information about the advantages of desexing your pet, contact your vet today. 3. Don’t Let Your Pet Eat Chocolate. This month alone, WellPet Vets has seen 5 cases of chocolate toxicity
in pets that have stolen their owners chocolate. Chocolate contains the chemicals; caffeine and Theobromine. Both of these chemicals are toxic to dogs and cats. All chocolate contains both of these chemicals, but they are much stronger in darker chocolate. This toxin in pets effects their hearts, liver and brain. There is no antidote and the effects can accumulate over time. Therefore it’s very important to never give your pet chocolate no matter how small the amount, at anytime. If your pet has eaten chocolate, please contact your vet immediately. This year we will be running our Annual Santa Pet Photo booth and fundraising for NKPR. We have partnered with experienced animal photographer Franklin Konaraki to take these special Christmas photos of your pets with our very own WellPet Santa. Franklin has a passion for animals and people as well an amazing ability to capture this on camera. Not only does he take beautiful photos, he is passionate about helping our furry friends as much as we are. Franklin will be donating 10% of the photo package prices to NKPR this year to help this group with the wonderful work they do. To Book your Santa Photos please call 1300 WELLPET (1300 9355738) For more information about NKPR and Franklin Konaraki Photography go to: www.nokillpetrescue.com.au, www.franklinphotography.com.au
Water week competition winners PENRITH Mayor Karen McKeown presented prizes to the winners of Penrith Council’s 2015 National Water Week Environmental Photo Competition on Wednesday 4 November. The competition encouraged budding photographers to explore Penrith’s river and creeks and the life these waterways support. More than 140 entries were received across three categories – kids, youth and open. Prizes were awarded for the three best images in each category. Cr McKeown said the winning entries captured the beauty and diversity of Penrith’s waterways and the plants and animals they support. “They highlight the importance of keeping our waterways healthy for both people and the animal life that rely on them,” she said. “Water is one of our most vital and valuable natural resources. Council continues to work with our community for healthier waterways so we can conserve our precious natural environment.”
1st Open DongVuong: “Sunset at Regatta” by Dong Vuong.
The winners were: Open Category: • Winner – Dong Vuong • Second Place – Robert Pearson • Third Place – Melanie Beattie Youth Category: • Winner – Callum Meney • Second Place – Rose-Marie Rech • Third Place – Sophie Schenk Kids Category: • Winner – Sofia Fasitsas • Second Place – Piper Spackman • Third Place – Holly Munday The annual competition is part of Council’s Stormwater Improvement Program. The program aims to improve and maintain the quality of our waterways and raise community awareness about water management and water use.
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1st Youth Callum Meney: “Baracade in River” by Callum Meney.
1st Kids Sofia Fasitsas: “Shh…hidden” by Sofia Fasitsas.
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Coo-ee march through town
ON the weekend, local onlookers cheered the Coo-ee marchers as they marched into Penrith, and the following day St Marys, as they re-enacted the Coo-ee march from 100 years ago. Starting from Gilgandra in country NSW, the original Cooee marchers in 1915 marched through to Parramatta, calling “Coo-ee” to recruit members to our defence forces. Memorial services were held to greet the 2015 marchers in both Penrith and St Marys, as well as a Civic Reception by Penrith Council Council at Penrith Paceway.
Dream chaser turned Mazda racer By Garion Thain
A YOUNG Penrith native has been specially selected by Mazda to race in a unique inviteonly event in the United States. Emu Plains local Joseph BurtonHarris, 18, is a lifelong racing enthusiast and finished his HSC a year early with Sydney Distance Education to further pursue his passion of professional motorsport. Recently he was selected by Mazda to compete in the exclusive Mazda Road to 24 Scholarship Shootout. This is the single-largest prize in grassroots motorsports, as each year one club racer is promoted to the professional ranks. Joseph is currently in Charlotte, North Carolina for the event. “I hope [this will] motivate other young kids to keep dreaming and they will achieve even the impossible dream in sports,” said ‘JBH,’ as he is known. JBH is young but already an accomplished career racer. Mazda themselves have a feature about JBH on their motorsport site, mazdamotorsports.com JBH represented Australia at the 2012 and 2013 Rotax World
Joseph Burton-Harris, 18, won the 2015 sprints at Road America. (Credit Mazda)
Championships, finishing 7th in 2012. Unfortunately, he contracted a water-borne illness at the 2013 event which left him unable to race in 2014, however he has returned in 2015 to perform admirably. Of course it doesn’t need to be said that for an 18 year old from Sydney’s west this is quite an impressive performance, whether his tilt this year at the Mazda scholarship shootout is a success or not. Joseph stressed that he still has close ties to the Nepean region despite his frequent travels and training. “I still train with the Emu Plains
FC whenever I am back in Australia and my brother goes to Nepean Performing Arts High,” he said. “I would love to keep everyone up to date back in Australia, especially the Nepean.” Joseph also founded 21st Century Youth LLC. After recovering from his illness and deciding that youth under 21 should have advice about health and their body readily available to them. He is still developing this in the midst of a busy year of racing. Joseph is in Charlotte during November. For information and updates, visit http://jbhracing.com/
We paused in remembrance of our fallen AT 11 am on 11 November 1918 the guns of the Western Front fell silent after more than four years continuous warfare. The allied armies had driven the German invaders back, having inflicted heavy defeats upon them over the preceding four months. In November the Germans called for an armistice (suspension of fighting) in order to secure a peace settlement. They accepted allied terms that amounted to unconditional surrender.
The 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month attained a special significance in the postwar years. The moment when hostilities ceased on the Western Front became universally associated with the remembrance of those who had died in the war. This first modern world conflict had brought about the mobilisation of over 70 million people and left between 9 and 13 million dead, perhaps as many as one-third of them with no
known grave. The allied nations chose this day and time for the commemoration of their war dead. in 1997, Governor-General Sir William Deane issued a proclamation formally declaring 11 November to be Remembrance Day, urging all Australians to observe one minute’s silence at 11 am on 11 November each year to remember those who died or suffered for Australia’s cause in all wars and armed conflicts.
ON REMEMBRANCE DAY WE PAUSE TO REFLECT ON THE SACRIFICE OF THOSE WHO PUT THEIR LIVES ON THE LINE TO SERVE OUR COUNTRY, AS WELL AS THOSE CURRENTLY DOING SO. LEST WE FORGET. LABOR CANDIDATE FOR LONDONDERRY
Councillor Prue Car Ph: 0450 659 811 prue.car@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au
A girl named Sue
AT Football NSW’s annual state dinner at Rosehill last weekend, local Sue Hampton was recognised for her amazing achievements in football. “Representing Nepean Football Association, Sue’s most current contribution to football in Nepean is as a valued member of the Nepean Disciplinary Tribunal, however her current role is only the tip of the iceberg in her 20 years of continuous service,” said Football NSW Media Manager Mark Stavroulakis. “Sue started like most other volunteers, with her children playing for a local club, Penrith FC, where she earned her well-respected volunteer stripes in various club committee positions over an 18 year period.
“However, by far the most valuable was as President of the club. “As well as roles of team manager or coach, Sue has served at club level with Penrith FC and at Representative level in the Nepean WSL squads, where she was a strong advocate of women’s football. “At Association level, Sue has served on the Disciplinary Panel and other tribunals as well as a member of the steering committee to establish Nepean FC. “Her love and enthusiasm of football is evident and is held in very high esteem by all at Nepean,” he added. Congratulations for your outstanding service to football in the Nepean District, Sue!
Win NYE tickets THE Member for Penrith, Stuart Ayres, is encouraging Nepean residents to enter the Roads and Maritime Services New Year’s Eve competition. You can try your luck to win tickets to celebrate the start of 2016 from one of Sydney’s best vantage points above Circular Quay! “This is a hugely popular competition and we receive thousands of entries from across the state each year - so get in fast to make sure you don’t miss out,” Mr Ayres said. “Enter and have a chance to share a spectacular New Year’s Eve to remember with your family and friends.” Entrants go into the draw to win one of nearly 1700 family passes to watch either the 9pm or midnight firework displays. Every winner receives a family pass of five tickets to share with loved ones. The lucky winners will get the privilege to enjoy the fun and family-friendly atmosphere with a range of pre-fireworks entertainment.
Entries close at 11.59pm on Friday, November 27 - entries are restricted to one entry per household. For your chance to win visit www.rms.nsw.gov.au/NYE. The Cahill Expressway is a specially designated family area and entry is by ticket only. Sydney New Year’s Eve is an annual multi-tiered event held every New Year’s Eve over Sydney Harbour, centring on the Sydney Harbour Bridge Its main features are two pyrotechnic display - the “9pm Family Fireworks” and the “Midnight Fireworks”, both of which are televised nationally, with the latter televised around the world. In recent years audiences of 1.5 million watch the display from vantage points around the harbour and 1.1 billion are reported to watch it globally on television. Synchronised to a soundtrack, the fireworks explode off the arches, catwalk and roadway of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and also the city buildings.
13 Nepean News 12 November 2015 Issue 162
localnews local
localnews local
14 Nepean News 12 November 2015 Issue 162
THE G SPOT
TODAY folks I am going to enlighten you with another pet hate that I have, the beloved grocery shopping. Yes there you have it, I have revealed more about myself, first obsessive compulsive disorder with my granny undies, and now the hate of shopping. The shops are open till midnight every night however every man and his dog including the 198,000 population of Penrith want to shop at lunchtime Saturday or Sunday. I would rather roll on a porcupine than push a trolley through price checks, crowd noise, domestics and kid’s tantrums in aisle 3. So when I enter one of these establishments, any serenity that I once had is slowly stripped from me. I guess the love for shops (not) came from my stint as a loss prevention security officer (LPO) many, many moons ago. (Which I may add that I detested, hated, vomitloathed – guess you get the picture; I was not keen on the job).
You knew once you were a LPO that you were really high on the food chain of the department store employee list, sharing our arrest and statement room with cleaners, dirty brooms, wet mops, staff lockers and unwanted stock, piled to the ceilings. The department store staff hated us and it was almost like someone screamed “Bomb Threat” when we entered the lunch room, clearing it in a few seconds (Which was good for finding seating). We also had a quota placed on us of about 15-25 hits a week ( meaning positive arrests with return of stock)which was really stupid because some LPO’s would false arrest to meet the pressures of the quota. I think the best ones I ever had included a guy that had everything and the kitchen sink on him, however once I got him in the crap pile room, I mean the statement room, he was able to discard the goods into the piles of crap already in there without the blink of an eye or
With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security
movement of the hand. The dude could steal you and you wouldn’t know it, if you stood still long enough (certainly experienced in his craft). Then there was the lady with two frozen chooks in between her legs under a skirt, so not only did I have to get the chooks back (Slightly defrosted) I also had to treat her for frost bite. Another with a typewriter up her dress - places a new meaning to writing without hands (or hands free) yeah I know not funny, I will stop with the jokes. Promise. Had a man chuck the fake epileptic fit in the statement room throwing mops, brooms, and stock everywhere, which really annoyed me because I just cleaned the dump up and could actually get to the desk without climbing over crap. Yeah baby I have seen it all; the junkies, the drunks, the people who have suddenly found God after being caught and promised to repent their sins if I let them go, the fake fainting, the bribes,
the people who load up their kids with stolen goods (heroes) and those who steal because they want to, have to and of course the people that need to. However I believe all come under the same banner “thieves” and it is as plain and simple as that! Another ironic thing was that once we caught the offenders we would be locked up with them (alone) in a room smaller than my car boot and some offenders were fresh out of prison. (I was young and bullet proof ey?)No cameras in those days, just handwritten statements, lots of luck, stupidity and balls of steel I guess? So there you have it folks I hate grocery shopping ( Tick) Stealing is NOT okay ( Tick) If ya gonna steal a frozen chook in between ya legs make sure its defrosted first ,so you don’t get hypothermia (Tick) and be a rebel shop on a Friday night at 10pm ( go on you can do it I dare ya)!
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Legends of the Nepean By Greg Martin
AFTER interviewing Michele Ellery for this article, I got to thinking that she reminded me of a raw army recruit, thrown into battle, knowing it was a matter of “kill or be killed – fight or perish”. Queen of Hearts founder, the unstoppable Michele Ellery.
But down the aeons, raw recruits survived that initial clash of arms and went on to fight other battles and become battle-hardened. And they in turn were able to offer their knowledge to aid inexperienced soldiers to live to fight another day. Michele is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Queen of Hearts Community Foundation and she too has fought a battle of attrition which led her into setting up the foundation. Queen of Hearts supports, protects, nurtures and raises awareness for survivors of child sexual abuse and their loved ones and also victims of domestic violence. Unfortunately, Michele, a registered nurse, knows first-hand about child sexual abuse – three of her daughters were among 10 children – boys and girls – who had been sexually assaulted by Penrith businessman, Bryan Edward Roads. Roads is now in a place where he belongs – behind bars where he will spend at least 17 years after pleading guilty to close to 100 charges brought against him by prosecutors. Late last year Roads was sentenced to 23 years in jail with a non-parole period of 17 years – his recent appeal
about the severity of the non-parole period was recently quashed. The child sexual abuse had a profound and debilitating effect on not only the Ellery family but many others in Penrith. Long-term friendships were broken, children and their families were traumatised throughout a two year period beginning with the discovery of the abuse in early February, 2012, the charging by Roads, the court processes and his eventual incarceration. My impression of Michele at our first meeting was that she was a gentle, loving person, reluctant to make waves – perhaps a person who would turn the other cheek time and time again to avoid conflict and keep the peace. That’s not to say she was a “weak” human being – far from it – after all, each and every one of us has a breaking point! But like those raw recruits, she quickly toughened up when she had to “affix bayonet and go over the top”, to use an old World War I analogy. This truly remarkable woman came out of the safety of that trench determined to do her utmost to aid and abet sexually abused children
and their families and to help ensure sexual predators like Roads cannot escape notice and punishment. Michele “came over the top” despite her own problems in overcoming the predation by Roads on her children and those of her close circle friends, of whom Roads was a member. She had to console her children, handle the breakdown of relationships with friends who were also affected by Roads’ despicable conduct, sit through court appearances as well as come to grips with her own trauma and stress. “I went through a period of hate,” Michele admitted. “It was just so challenging living with children who had been sexually abused and also trying to process my own feelings throughout all the time it took from the discovery of the abuse. Roads’ arrest and finally his conviction. “The passion of hate is so debilitating but with the help of expert counselling and the love of my family I turned to another passion – a passion to make it my life’s goal to try and ensure other families do not experience what we had been put through.”
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MICHELE ELLERY Thus the birth of Queen of Hearts! “I worked on a couple of community fund-raising ventures and in May last year I organised a Brave Hearts fundraiser at Ropes Crossing at which we raised $8500,” Michele said. “But I really wanted to work on raising money to help combat child abuse locally and a year previously I had commenced proceedings with various government departments to set-up a recognised public benevolence institution. “It took just on two years but we managed to jump through all the hoops and were able to establish Queen of Hearts last August.” Queen of Hearts Foundation has three business-savvy people as board members - Julz Jasprizza-Lau is the chair, Michele’s husband, David, who is treasurer and Barbara Staader is the secretary. Queen of Hearts raises funds through various activities such as a recent and highly successful car show and monies raised are used: • to pay counselling fees and reduce waiting times. • provide referrals to other services to aid victims and families. • raise public awareness through
public speaking and fund-raising events. • strive to create policy changes including sentencing statues. “In my public speaking I offer advice about abusers’ tricks of grooming young children and how to recognise liars for what they are,” Michele said. “And believe you me, these predators are consummate liars and that is why those who know and love them refuse to accept they have committed offences despite concrete evidence to the contrary.” Queen of Hearts is conducting its next big fundraiser – Family Xmas Fun Day - at The Henry Sports Club on Sunday, December 13 between 1pm-5pm. “Of course Santa will be making an appearance, there a treasure hunt for the kids, face painting and bouncing castle, show bags, sausage sizzle, raffles and arts and crafts stalls,” Michele said. So help provide Queen of Hearts and Michele with a winning hand in the fight against child abuse by turning up on the day for what will be, as the name implies – a wonderful Family Xmas Fun Day.
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Michele Ellery and foundation ambassador, Guilio Ranieri, a Penrith builder (Style Developments and Style Homes) who has been a tremendous supporter since hearing Michele speak at a Bella Vista networking group meeting earlier this year.
Michele Ellery nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Kerrie Davies. If you know a local legend, send us a nomination at greg@nepeannews.com.au
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nepeanhistory nepean
18 Nepean News 12 November 2015 Issue 162
Continuation of the
‘Park View’ Hotel - 1918
A
NOTHER court case regarding Annie Mullens and “Snow” Elgood in February 1918 was the transfer of the liquor licence to John Joseph Delaney who was formally the proprietor of the “Federal Hotel” at Penrith. This was vetoed by Martin Brell who said that he found Delaney not a fit and proper publican due to his breaches of the liquor licences over the last 12 months, so their application was refused. In March Thomas Joseph Hailstone formally of Manly was granted the licence of the hotel from Annie with Martin Brell’s approval. In April 1919 Thomas gave a cash prize to R. Woodland who was the highest scorer of a cricket match between Penrith & St Marys (who won) but by May the hotel licence was transferred from Thomas to Morton “Dudley” Ollivier from Bowral who continued to serve the lunches for the Old Buffers reunion. Thomas Hailstone died at his residence in Parramatta Road at Leichhardt in 1931 at the age of 60 years. He was buried in the Catholic section at Rookwood. Other licenses he held besides the “Park View” was the “Australian Arms” in 1921 at Penrith and the “Orient” at Emu Plains. In June 1919 there was a startling explosion in front of the hotel. People in the vicinity thought for a moment that a “Hun” (sic) aeroplane had strayed out this way and was dropping one of those “playful crackers the like of which caused so much commotion in London and elsewhere”, but when their hearts had ceased fluttering and they were able to look around, they found that it was only a minor explosion, though obviously it must have been very unpleasant for Dudley Ollivier at the hotel because he was lighting one of his acetylene gas lamps and through some misadventure an explosion occurred and as a result he was badly cut about the face and hands “but nothing serious”. To give some idea of the force of the explosion, a young boy coming out of Billy Parkin’s store on the opposite corner was hit in the face by a fragment of flying glass (ouch!). Staying in June, a motor car collision happened one afternoon in Victoria Street near Martin Brell’s tannery when returned soldier Logie Shadlow of Badgerys Creek was riding a motorcycle to Penrith and corning in the other direction was a motor car containing Mr H. B. Sevier, Mrs Sevier (from Becroft) and family. The car was being driven by Mrs Sevier. The road at that particular location was so bad it made the traffic all veer to one side of the road and this was the cause of the collision that resulted in the returned soldier being thrown heavily to the ground and suffering nasty bruises on the head and shoulder, but fortunately sustained no serious injury. He was taken to the “Park View” and treated by Dr Day. The front wheel of the motorcycle was badly damaged and the front axle of the car was twisted. Mr Sevior undertook to pay all expenses in connection with the mishap irrespective of the question of who was at fault. In November there was a fire at the hotel where a big disaster was narrowly averted when a lodger retired for the night. Somehow the flames of the lighted candle reached the curtains. Luckily Dan Brell (Martin’s son) was over in Billy Parkin’s shop at the time and noticed the brilliant illumination in the room opposite sometime between 10.30 and 11 p.m. He made a bee-line for the room via the hotel hall calling out to Mr. Ollivier on route, ‘Your house is on fire.’ It wasn’t quite as bad as that but probably could have been a state of affairs if his timely discovery had not been made. In fact the window blinds had already been consumed by the devouring flames but the efforts of fire extinguishers averted further trouble. The strange part about the affair was that the lodger did not wake up until the entry into his room by the two men. At that time the St Marys Council had valued the hotel at £196. Also in November a soldier’s cricket match was played on Victoria Park and Dudley offered a trophy for the highest scorer that was won
by Private Harold Bennett. Dudley only stayed for one year at the hotel transferring the license to Albert E. Daymond from Victoria in September 1920. In November 1921 there was a robbery at the Park View when Reginald Lee (alias McLeod) stole from George Reeves. The witnesses were Charles Daymond (who was named as the barman at the hotel) & William Harold Daymond (who was an engine driver at St Marys), and Arthur Selwyn Wallace (who was a nightwatchman employed on the Western Road & lived at St Marys). Reginald was found guilty. July 1922 another motorcycle accident happened when the motorcycle and side-car carrying a gentleman and lady respectively met with a mishap opposite the Park View. Somehow the connection between the cycle and sidecar became loosened and the latter overturned bringing the cycle down with it. The lady was badly bruised and shaken and two council employees Frank Viney and George Turner came to her assistance. She was taken to Nurse Colless’ private hospital but was allowed to return home the same day. In August 1922 the Park View hosted a party for Harry Ward of Werrington who was leaving the district. Harry was a Gunner in WW1 and the local poet. Once again another short stay for the hotel when in September 1922 the licence was transferred from Albert Daymond to Thomas Blanchfield who was formerly of East Sydney. Albert moved to Kensington. But again after only one year, the transfer of the hotel license from Thomas Blanchfield to Arthur Ernest Ireland was granted at Penrith Licensing Court. Arthur said that he had 12 years’ experience of hotels at Bowral, Camden, Clarencetown and Rylestone. Arthur’s advertisement in April 1923 was asking to phone him or Martin Brell who were looking for workers to paint and renovate the hotel but by September Mrs Ireland was in Penrith hospital and by October Arthur transferred the licence of the hotel to Annie May Fisher (formally Mullens) from Sydney who had already held the licence of the hotel in 1918 and had divorced her husband. In June 1924 Tooth & Co became the owners of the Park View. Tooth & Co. Ltd had become a public company in 1888 with a capital of £900,000. They decided to undergo extensive alterations by pulling down the adjoining properties to enlarge the hotel. They planned a large island bar and a parking area and in July 1924 the St Marys Council received an application to bring the land of the hotel under the Real Property Act due to the sale and in November the renovations were approved by the Penrith Licensing Court and St Marys Council at a cost of around £3,000. Annie May stayed on as the licensee. Source: BDM, Ancestry, Trove, Tooth & Co & NSW State Archives websites. To be continued.... Lyn Forde – Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.
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with Linda Kemp
The importance of checking references IF I had a dollar for every time I’ve heard a business owner or manager tell me about the fantastic person they hired, who seemed to have a complete personality change once they started work I’d be rich by now. We’ve all done it at some time in our careers; interviewed someone, hired them, only to have Dr Jekyll turn into Mr Hyde. No matter how good a judge of character you are, Interviewing should be used as only one part of the recruitment process, there is so much more involved and the most important part of the entire hiring process is……yes….you guessed it reference checking. I think we would all agree that in any aspect of life…..previous performance or behaviour over an extended period of time is a good indicator of future performance, so why would we not check that with previous employers and/or clients. Completing references at the end of the entire process can be a time waster. You can spend hours if not days screening through 100’s of ad responses, interviewing, shortlisting and conducting skills assessments only to get to the point of reference checks and find that the person you interviewed is not who they seemed, and you have to start all over again. Instead of it being the final step, in the hiring process it is much wiser to conduct checks earlier even before the interview. It can save time that might have been otherwise wasted on someone who was never going to fit the bill. It’s important
to ask permission of the candidate before checking the references. Be objective and by asking objective open ended questions, it is possible to get accurate input which confirms the details of their employment, i.e. dates and duties, and gives feedback on: their performance of duties, interaction with other team members, time management, handling stressful situations, reliability, their strengths and weaknesses and most importantly, would ever be rehired…..and why/why not. Improve the quality of your next recruitment experience by following these simple guidelines: • Don’t stop after one reference, get a balanced overview, complete at least 3 and if the prospective employee hasn’t stayed in one place for long, do enough references to cover a sizeable period of time over their working history • Don’t just speak to their previous boss, get a balanced view from their direct supervisor, colleagues, direct reports, and clients and/or customers • Collate all of the feedback from the completed references so it can be analysed, interpreted and validated • Keep in mind that some referees may have worked with the potential employee at more than one company, this is not uncommon and can add a different dimension in terms of performance results Good luck…..happy recruiting LK
Nepean News 12 November 2015 Issue 162
RECRUITMENT REVIEW
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CLERK/RECEPTIONIST – PENRITH LOCATION – TEMP TO PERM - $24.87PH + SUPER General reception duties, including DA applications and applying for land titles. Must have good communication skills + MS Office and excellent customer service skills.
TRADES POSITIONS AVAILABLE HEAVY VEHICLE MECHANIC – SMITHFIELD Must have experience working on trailers, $32ph, temp to perm position, immediate start. PLANT OPERATOR – KATOOMBA Licensed excavator operator required, labouring, use of hand tools $29.85ph. PROJECT MANAGER – PENRITH Work in the home improvement industry, commission based role, huge earning potential, great team! CNC PROGRAMMER/OPERATOR Permanent fulltime role – Programming and Operating CNC Lathes. Must have Fanuc, Heidenhain and/or Mazatrol control experience. Based in Revesby - $60k - $70k + super. CNC SETTER/OPERATOR Permanent fulltime role – Setting and Operating CNC Lathes. Must have Mazak setting and operating exp (no programming req) Based in Wetherill Park - $60k - $75k + super.
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localnews local
Nepean News 12 November 2015 Issue 162
Give a dog a home for Christmas A DOG is arguably the most loyal and loving species on the planet. Their owners are their entire world and they’ll do anything in their power to win the affection of those around them. Sadly, there are many, many dogs and cats without homes at Hawkesbury Animal Shelter, and it is the mission of a group of volunteers named Friends of Hawkesbury Companion Animal Shelter (FOHCAS) to help find homes and “seek the extras”
for these four-footed orphans. Give the gift of love this Christmas and open your home to a pet who has sadly lost what he or she thought was their loving home. Call 4560 4644 today, don’t delay! In NSW, council impound facilities house lost pets for a set time in order that they be reclaimed by owners. All NSW Pounds work under the time allowed by
PCC 720 AMERICAN BULLDOG FEMALE 12 MONTHS $349.50 AVILABLE FOR SALE 3.11.15 KENNEL 80
PCC 786 HUSKY FEMALE 12YRS $349.50 AVAILABLE 9.11.15 KENNEL 31
A stunning girl with her lovely eye make up, she would make a great companion for someone who is looking for a walking / jogging partner. At 12 months of age she has lots of life and love to give her new family so if you think you can keep up with her than please call the shelter!
At 12 this dear old lady should be living her life with her family but instead has to hope that a new family will come along and want to make her apart of theirs. She is a little slower getting around but is very sweet, she would love the slow paced kind of home for the rest of her remaining years.
law and the Companion Animals Act NSW. *Un microchipped stray animals waiting for owner collection must serve 7 days impoundment before adoption or euthanansia if unclaimed. *Microchipped animals waiting for owner collection must serve 14 days impoundment before adoption or euthanasia if unclaimed. *Surrendered animals have no minimum time to serve.
PCC 774 X STAFFY MALE 5YRS $349.50 AVAILABLE 22.11.15 KENNEL 56 This medium sized fella is very interesting looking, he has great markings and is a lovely natured dog. He was very happy to have some time with the volunteers and got to run around and play. He was a little choosy with his friends so a meet and greet with your exsiting dog would be recommended.
PCC 782 STAFFY MALE 4YRS $349.50 AVAILABLE 24.11.15 KENNEL 28 Who dosen’t love a happy and smiley staffy! This lovely natured guy was so happy to be out in the sunshine with volunteers, he does a great sit and will take treats gentley. He was happy to meet other dogs in the next run and have a bit of a play through the fence.
E N T E R T A I N M E N T
Nepean News 12 November 2015 Issue 162
Keep on Swingin’ AT just 20 years of age, the sensational Liam Burrows is a truly gifted young artist who has enjoyed a meteoric rise to the top of the music scene, performing all over Australia as well as overseas. He was a finalist on Australia’s Got Talent, and has stunned the public with a mature vocal style and stage presence that is way beyond his years. Liam will treat his audience to familiar favourites, including On a Wonderful Day like Today, Come Fly with Me, Around the World, I’ve Got You Under my Skin and Pennies from Heaven and more. Nick Bavarell is a dynamic performer with an engaging personality who plays accordion, piano and keyboard. Liam and Nick will be joined by Donna Boyd, a stunning Australian songwriter and performer, who combines an exceptional voice, a superior audience engagement with insightful song interpretation and song-writing ability. As an Outback NSW Ambassador, Donna communicates the benefits of traveling in your own country and discovering rural and outback Australia. Donna’s song Take Time was licensed for advertising by the Outback NSW Tourism Campaign for 2009 and the Royal Flying Doctor Service has licensed her spine tingling acoustic version of Amazing Grace. All tickets are $20 and include a delicious morning tea served from 10am. Performance begins at 11am and concludes around 12.30pm. All seats are allocated. To book call The Joan’s Box Office on
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4723 7600 or online at www.thejoan.com.au. The Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre is located at 597 High Street, Penrith. Nearby parking and public transport is available.
Sunday 29th November The Australiana i Pioneer Village’s 45th Birthday We are having a Giant Birthday Party including: - Entertainment - Music with Trudy Lee - always a favourite at The Australiana Pioneer Village - Party games including gumboot & akubra hat tossing, - Games musical chairs, maypole dancing, drop the letter, - Place the bullet on Ned Kelly’s Head, Pin the Tail on the Donkey, Place the nose on the Clown - Join in singing Happy Birthday to the Village before cutting our Birthday Cake - Craft - decorate a Party Hat - Treasure Map looking for the Birthday Cakes around The Village
Twilight Markets Friday 4th December 2015 from 5.00pm to 9.00pm A night you do not want to miss ~ The most magical time at The Australiana Pioneer Village
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit The Australiana Pioneer Village in the night – see the Christmas Lights and see how The Village takes on a completely different look • Santa and some little helpers will be visiting • Stalls – great for Christmas Shopping with a difference • Food Stalls including our 2 cafes Choirs • Carriage Rides • Christmas Raffle
PHONE 4575 1777 ROSE STREET, WILBERFORCE NSW www.theapv.org.au
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finance and real estate matters
Nepean News 12 November 2015 Issue 162
Home loan interest rates increased again With Steve Beard Select Mortgage Broker
AS you may know by now, most of the major lenders have announced increases to their variable home loan interest rates over the last few weeks. These increases were made as the lenders say they need to make more profit from each loan so they can increase the cash reserves in order to meet the governments’ new regulatory requirements. I can hear you all feeling sorry for the poor old lenders, making their record profits each year can be really tough sometimes! Following is a list of the major lenders and when their variable home loan rates are increasingVariable rate increase
Date when effective
CITIBANK
0.20 PERCENT
30 OCTOBER
WESTPAC
0.20 PERCENT
20 NOVEMBER
BANKWEST
0.18 PERCENT
17 NOVEMBER
NAB
0.17 PERCENT
12 NOVEMBER
ANZ
0.17 PERCENT
12 NOVEMBER
ST GEORGE
0.15 PERCENT
20 NOVEMBER
CBA
0.15 PERCENT
20 NOVEMBER
Some smaller lenders and overseas based lenders haven’t announced any increases yet but could do at any time of course. These increases are on top of all the increases that were made over the last 2 months to investment home loans as well. So investors are getting a double hit. To avoid this double hit, investors can fixed all or part of their loans. Most lenders have fixed terms of 2 and 3 years that are approximately 0.30 percent below the new investment variable rates. These higher rates, especially for investors, seems to have reduced demand for local and the greater Sydney area property. All of a sudden, properties are being sold close to the asking price as opposed to the 10 percent premium buyers had to pay prior to the last few months. This is the effect the government wanted as the Sydney and Melbourne property markets were too hot and the regulators were starting to be concerned a property bubble may
SELECT MORTGAGE FINANCE
expand too fast and then pop. The Reserve Bank (RBA) continued to keep official interest rates on hold at 2.0 percent at it last meeting on Melbourne Cup day. If the property markets continue to cool down back to a more normal supply and demand balanced situation, and the economy continues to only grow at low levels, and confidence needs to be increased, then the RBA may then pull the lever to reduce the official cash interest rates again over the next months. However, if interest rates are decreased again, overall demand by investors and owner occupiers will probably increase again which will flow into even higher property prices. For owner occupiers, there are some great home loan deals available at the moment with interest rates under 4.0 percent for both variable loans and fixed rate loans of 3 years. With negative economic news out weighing the positive news overall, I can’t see the RBA increasing the official interest rate for the 12 months or so.
Unless interest rates increase, property prices in the Sydney region will continue to rise, albeit at a much slower pace than the last few years. Trying to time the market and buy when the demand is the lowest and the supply is the highest in the property cycle is an aim seasoned property buyers, and they can make great returns if you are successful. However, this timing has a lot to do with just plain luck and circumstances. History tells us that property in good locations with good underlying demand held for the long term usually always will give you a good return. Trying to time to market and buy in the low points and selling in the high points is purely a gamble and subject to a lot of luck. This something that I don’t recommend of course. Please do not hesitate to contact me on 4739 4500, 0403 166207 or beards@selectgrp.com.au if you what to discuss your situation, any financial matters or have any Home Finance questions that I can assist you with.
Ph: 4739 4500 Mob: 0403 166 207 Email: beards@selectgrp.com.au
CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 People of faith (9) 6 Male reproductive cell (5) 9 Entrails (7) 10 Scented (7) 11 Anagram of “Deserts” (7) 12 Homosexual woman (7) 13 Committing an act of treachery (9) 15 Bearskin (5) 16 Empower (5) 19 Disaster (9) 22 Capuchin monkey (7) 23 Slid (7) 25 A loose African men’s tunic (7) 26 Artist’s studio (7) 27 Abominable snowmen (5) 28 Homesick (9)
DOWN 1 Constructed (5) 2 Merciful (7) 3 The joined continents of Europe and Asia (7) 4 Made easier to bear (5) 5 Limelight (9) 6 Husbands and wives (7) 7 Strange or rare objects (7) 8 Mislead (9) 13 Fortunately (9) 14 Added into a group (9) 17 Putting money into your account (7) 18 Issues an injunction (7) 20 A fire-breathing monster of Greek mythology (7) 21 Barking in a high-pitched tone (7) 23 Large amounts (5) 24 An order of classical Greek architecture (5)
solution 29/10/15
Ask
LATTS
All your real estate questions answered, with Darren Latty ~ darren@prd.net.au THE decorations are up in town and you might even have started your Christmas shopping (if you’re organised!). But we’re not in wind down mode yet, and there is still time to sell your property if you want to have the deal done and dusted before Santa does his rounds. Selling at Christmas may seem like an odd choice, but you can always find a reason to put off going to market - in Winter properties don’t look their best; selling in Spring is hard because everyone else is selling so there’s less competition; then there’s January while everyone recovers, public holidays, school holidays… and so on. But what about the positives? There are fewer properties around, which
23 Nepean News 12 November 2015 Issue 162
realestate real
means more buyers competing for yours. Some people would prefer to buy now and have the holiday period to move in and settle down before returning to work. Also, buyers that are looking now are likely to be just as serious about wanting to get something sorted as you are. If both parties are willing it’s possible to arrange for shorter cool off and settlement periods . Perfect if you want to tick off moving before the year is out. With high demand and lack of supply, lots of buyers have been frustrated recently. A new home could be just the Christmas present they’re looking for. Just don’t go too overboard with the decorations if you’re going to have people looking around!
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Idris released by Panthers; NRL career in doubt By Stewart Moses
at times taken a strange hold, that has seen the giant centre prematurely end stints at the Gold @TheRiffMarn Coast and now Penrith, but Gould is hopeful Idris will make it back to playing again. THE tumultuous career of “In top form, Jamal is a State of Origin Jamal Idris took another quality player. I hope that he can find a way dramatic twist after the 25 year old centre, to rekindle his motivation for the game and successfully gained a release from the return at some stage in the future.” final year of his contract with the Penrith Idris leaves Penrith having played just 28 Panthers last Monday. games in two years and played his best football Despite persistent rumours that Idris was for the Panthers at the back end of their set to join the Melbourne Storm in 2016, 2014 charge into the finals, ironically after the former representative centre cited that returning from a stint away from the game in he needed time out to contemplate his May last year for personal reasons thought to future in the game as the reason for the be related to alcohol and depression after he release. Idris spent almost as much time on the sidelines for Penrith as he did playing failed to report back to training following a “I love the game of rugby league but just trip to the Gold Coast. at the moment I need to take some time away,” Idris approach especially given conditions were imposed Idris’ release provides some salary cap relief to said. a club that has a number of key players coming off on the centre’s return to training. “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at the Panthers Gould, was understanding of the centre’s decision contract in 2016. but I did not want to continue playing if I couldn’t to step away from the game once again. It’s known for certain whether Penrith will recruit guarantee giving them 100 per cent.” “Jamal has been wonderful for our club. He played a replacement for 2016 but it appears likely that Should he fulfil his decision and take 2016 off, it an integral role in the Panthers’ run towards a top four the Panthers have recruited Souths forward Chris could be a long road back for the centre to play in the finish in 2014,” Gould said. Grevsmuhl for 2017 as reported in the Sunday NRL again given his season-ending knee injury back “He was an extremely popular player with Telegraph. in Round 6, will mean effectively nearly two years our members and his work off the field with the Phil Gould did reveal on social media that Idris away from the game should Idris decide he is ready community and junior league programs has been was set to move into the forwards in 2016, which to return. would have opened up an opportunity for Waqa nothing short of outstanding.” Idris was the first player to meet with new coach “Injury and personal issues restricted his playing Blake, Robert or George Jennings or even Isaah Yeo Anthony Griffin just days earlier and gave assurances time last season and I totally understand the reasons to partner Dean Whare in the centres in any case. that he was ready to front up to last Monday’s pre- behind his request for this release.” However beyond those players, the Panthers do season training. At his best, Idris is capable of playing for his state look short on back-up options and may have to blood However, there has been speculation that Idris and country but that form in recent times has been all the likes of Brent Naden and Maliko Filino should would not be able to cope with Griffin’s disciplined too fleeting as the battle over personal demons have injuries arise in the backs.
25 Nepean News 12 November 2015 Issue 162
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By We are a Penrith-based business that is rapidly expanding due to a number of new government & corporate contracts which allow us to provide a number of job opportunities for local people to join our busy team. Do you have trades skills that fit our roles? Looking for a challenge and IMMEDIATE START? Send your resume now to hr@hix.com.au or call 4721 7500 for more information.
Maintenance / Programmed Maintenance Electrician Solar Electrician We require a Licensed Electrician with experience in programmed maintenance, repairs & fault finding to join our team. Duties will involve Programmed Electrical Maintenance and a range of repairs & installs. Whilst we are based in Penrith, work will extend across the Sydney Metro area and will include most work between Parramatta & the city centre. Early starts (& therefore early finishes to deal with traffic & client requirements) will be required.
We also require a Licensed electrician with experience in general property repairs & maintenance, including Hot Water, Stoves & ovens, lighting & power to join our Penrith Based Maintenance Team. Duties include domestic and commercial real estate maintenance, commercial offices and government works including Rail, RMS & council premises. Experience & accreditation in Solar installation & repairs would also be a major advantage.
Must be meticulous in your work, have good customer service skills & be willing to use a Smartphone as a part of our Electronic Job Management System.
26
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Nepean News 12 November 2015 Issue 162
BEHIND THE STUMPS Penrith Great Retires Penrith all-rounder Patrick Jackson has retired from playing, with work and coaching commitments behind the decision. The 2013/14 Bill O’Reilly Medallist and former NSW Blues cricketer retires having scored over 5,000 club runs including over 3,000 first grade runs as well as taking over 300 club wickets including almost 200 first grade wickets. The all-rounder will now focus on his coaching commitments with Penrith’s U16’s Green Shield team.
Round Five: Black Cats All But Washed Out Day One of Penrith Cricket Club’s Round Five fixtures with Bankstown last Saturday, were washed out with the exception of second grade. After being sent into bat, Penrith scored a competitive 8/323 with 16 year old prodigy, Ryan Hackney top-scoring with 76, with Brent Williams (58), Peter Betros (46), Tim McKay (44) and Jarrod Lee (42*) all providing valuable support. Both first and third grade games become 120 over games next Saturday, while both fourth and fifth grade games are 50 overs a side games. Penrith’s first grade clash with fifth placed Bankstown will be a real test given they will possibly be without Josh Lalor and Luke Morrissey, with Michael Collins and Cameron Weir set to take their place. But despite those challenges coach Steve Small says the team are motivated to play well against such a strong club. “I think we owe them one given they have given us a hard time over the past few seasons so it will be a good test for the boys. I think they are up for it.”
Round One Poidevin-Gray Wrap: Black Cats Demolish Parramatta Penrith opened their Poidevin Gray season in style, easily defeating
Parramatta at Old Kings Oval last Sunday. Led by Cameron Weir and featuring the likes of Jonathan Sammut, Ryan Hackney, Adrian Isherwood and Jake Wholohan, the Black Cats set Parramatta 177 to win after Hackney top scored with 63. But Parramatta were dismissed for just 32, with Daniel Sparkes the chief destroyer, taking 6 wickets while Wholohan and Kaine Balgowan took two each.
Round Four: Black Cats the Real Deal Last Saturday week, Penrith moved into equal third position having successfully chased Mosman’s 9/325 (dec) to record a three wicket win at Allan Border Oval, their third victory in succession. Worcestershire’s Tom KohlerCadmore starred for the Black Cats, scoring a well-constructed 126 from 238 balls that included 19 4’s and a six. Penrith coach Steve Small, after the game said the young opener could one day represent England. “Tommy really led the way, playing nice and straight early on and that was the key,” Small said. “I think he’s certainly player of the future for England.” If Kohler-Cadmore’s innings put Penrith in a strong position, Josh Lalor’s swash-buckling 61 not out from just 47 balls allowed the Black Cats to finish off in style, confirming Small’s view the NSW Blues bowler could develop into a fine all-rounder. “He’s a bit underrated with the bat, Josh. If he puts his mind to it a little bit more he could be a real devastating all-rounder.” Small acknowledged the late wickets on day one enabled another successful run chase. “That was spoken about in the dressing room afterwards (on day one),” Small explained. “It was the difference in chasing 325 instead of 380 and it was their desperation in the field on a placid
FREE SOIL & LEVELLING
WITH STEW MOSES
wicket that kept them in the hunt.” “Everyone was wondering whether last week was a fluke or not but (we’ve proved) we’re the real deal when it comes to chasing runs down.” Small added the quality of Sydney wickets and change of ball type used in grade cricket means wickets are harder to come by for most teams, including Penrith. “There’s not a lot of growth (of grass on wickets) but it’s also got a lot to do with the ball we are using at the moment,” Penrith’s coach exclaimed. “We’re using the Sheffield Shield ball which doesn’t have a big seam on it and doesn’t do as much for as long which makes it harder to take wickets.” “There’s not too many teams that have bowled a team out yet and we’ve got one of the better attacks so I’m looking forward to when we can actually knock a team over,” Small said.
Lower Grades Wrap: Round Four A wins for seconds, a draw for fourths, and losses for thirds and fifths, who led on first innings only to lose outright. 2nds: Penrith 219 (C Weir 77, P Williams 63*) & 5/106 (dec) (R Hackney 45) def. Mosman 110 (T Finemore 5/46 M Collins 3/32) & 212 (T Finemore 5/56) 3rds: Mosman 195 (D Sparkes 3/42 L Hodges 2/26) & 2/62 def. Penrith 119 (J Apicella 41 L Hodges 39) 4ths: Penrith 266 (L O’Hare 54 A Hazard 53) drew with Mosman 7/227 (K Balgowan 3/54 A Ison 2/37) 5ths: Mosman 130 (D Miklosz 3/20 S Kitchener 2/38) & 6/171 (S Kitchener 2/48) def. Penrith 198 (J Newton 37 J Dowd 34) & 9/101 (dec)
Women’s Wrap Both Penrith female teams’ Round Six games versus Northern Districts were washed out last Sunday, having both lost their Round Five matches to Bankstown the previous Sunday: 1sts – Bankstown 3/141 def. Penrith
@THERIFFMARN 140; 2nds – Bankstown 5/273 def. Penrith 7/164
Repping the Black Cats Penrith’s Josh Lalor was recalled to start for NSW in their Sheffield Shield clash with Victoria at the SCG which was abandoned last Sunday in controversial circumstances. Penrith’s Naomi Stalenberg again had limited opportunities scoring just 1 late in the Cricket NSW Breakers’ innings before they easily accounting for the Queensland Fire last Sunday week. Finally Penrith fourth grade cricketer, Tyran Liddiard, played for the Sydney Thunder’s Aboriginal side that defeated the Sydney Sixers in the Aboriginal T20 Cup, last weekend in Orange.
Back to Penrith Day A reminder that Penrith Cricket Club’s annual “Back to Penrith Day” is scheduled for Sunday, November 22 at Howell Oval, coinciding with the club’s Poidevin Gray Round Three clash versus University of New South Wales. It’s a great day for all current/ former players, administrators, supporters and sponsors alike so RSVP your attendance by November 15 to either Paul Goldsmith (0411 012 233) Ron Halse (0419 207 136) Luke Morrissey (0407 476 980) Tim Whiticker (0420 311 486) or email penrithcricketclubinc@gmail.com.
Next Up Round Six: Saturday 21-28/11 v Sydney (1st / 3rd / 5th grade - home; 2nd / 4th grade – away) Poidevin-Gray Round Two: Sunday 15/11 v Northern Districts (Howell Oval); Round Three: Sunday 22/11 v UNSW Womens Round Seven: Sunday 15/11 v Sydney (1sts – home; 2nds – away); Round Eight: Sunday 22/11 v Universities (both teams away) #LoveTheCats
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Nepean News 12 November 2015 Issue 162
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DWZ Extends Contract Dallin Watene-Zelezniak has become the first of hopefully many players to recommit their futures after extending his contract to the end of 2017. “It’s awesome to have committed to the Panthers for another year,” the 20 year old Kiwi said. “There is a lot to look forward to with our current squad, and all the young players coming through, and I’m excited to be a part of it.” Dallin says that the decision to extend for just the one season helps motivate him to perform. “I’ve always signed one-year deals as it gives me extra motivation and ensures I’m constantly working hard to earn my place in the team,” he said. “The Panthers have shown great belief in my abilities and I am determined to repay that faith on the field.”
As Matagi Finally Becomes a Panther Finally confirmation that Sydney Roosters and ex-Warriors prop, Suaia Matagi, 27, has put pen to paper, signing with Penrith for 2016 with an option for another season. The Kiwi and Samoan international prop may have played just 43 NRL games to date but Panthers Executive General Manager, Phil Gould AM says Matagi will provide leadership and inspiration given his well-publicised background and is keen to give back to the community. “Sui has proven himself to be an inspiration with his life story and his preparedness to share his experiences with the younger generation,” Gould said. “As well as playing football, Sui is keen to involve himself in a number of the club’s community projects.”
@THERIFFMARN
There is a significant decrease in the number of players needing to have off-season surgery heading into 2016, which is just as well if an arduous week one of pre-season training is anything to go by. Unlike last year’s pre-season that saw over twenty players come through rehabilitation, only George and Robert Jennings, Wellington and Stanton Albert, Villiame Kikau, Matt Moylan and Peter Wallace are still in rehabilitation. New buys Trent Merrin and Suaia Matagi commence training this week, while Dean Whare is on test duty in the UK with the Kiwis. New Panther Suaia Matagi Puts Pen to Paper. Credit: Jeff Lambert
and Australian Schoolboys five-eighth, Nathan Cleary signed a new three-year contract until the end of 2018 and told Panthers Media his father’s departure helped in his decision to remain at the club. “To be honest it’s made it easier for me to carve my own path and follow the direction I want to go without having people speculate about the influence of my Dad (Ivan),” Nathan said.
But a Panther Becomes a Sea-Eagle Isaac John becomes the third Panther to join exassistant coach Trent Barrett at Manly, having signed a one year deal. John faces stiff competition from Jamie Lyon, Peter Hiku, Tom Trbojovic and even Brett Stewart for the five-eighth role, vacated by Kieran Foran.
While a Rabbitoh is Set to Hop It to Penrith The Sunday Telegraph reported last Sunday that promising Souths back-rower / prop Chris Grevsmuhl will join Penrith from 2017, as the Rabbitohs look to make salary cap space to accommodate Sam Burgess’s return from Rugby Union. Grevsmuhl, 22 had a debut NRL season to remember in 2015, playing 22 NRL games and scoring six tries. The ex-North Queensland 106kg forward is earmarked for future representative honours, having already represented Australia as a Junior Kangaroo as well achieving Queensland Under 20’s and Australian Schoolboys honours.
Coaching Appointments The promotion of Garth Brennan to NRL assistant coach under Anthony Griffin has allowed Steve Georgallis to return as NSW Cup Coach. Georgallis, having previously coached at Penrith from 2005-11 in various roles including caretaker NRL coach, returns after assistant coaching stints with Wests Tigers (2012-13) and Manly (2014-15). Meanwhile, Penrith feeder club in the Ron Massey Cup, Windsor Wolves has appointed recently retired Panthers prop, Brent Kite as coach for 2016, replacing Brad Prior. The surprise appointment has been welcomed by most including management and players and provides Kite with the perfect opportunity to develop his coaching skills.
Nathan Sees Clearly Now Further good news for Penrith after Holden Cup
Panthers in Better Shape for 2016 Pre-Season Training
Wallace’s Issues with Griffin Now “Water Under the Bridge” Speaking of Peter Wallace, he broke his silence last week at training, telling the media that the issues between him and Griffin during his tenure at Brisbane is “water under the bridge.” In an interview with nrl.com, Wallace says those issues with Griffin were three years ago and added there was no need to clear the air with Penrith’s new coach at day one of pre-season training. Wallace also says he is on track to fully recover from his third major knee surgery in two years, given he will commence running on the treadmill this week and looks set to resume full training in January.
Voting Underway as Changes Made to All Stars Concept The hugely popular All Stars concept has undergone some significant ahead of the February 15 fixture at Suncorp Stadium. The Indigenous All Stars will now play a World All Stars team which must comprise of at least four players from Australia, New Zealand and Great Britain with the reminder to be filled by players from Fiji, Samoa, Tonga and PNG. Voting for the Indigenous All Stars has now commenced and Panther fans can help vote Will Smith, Tyrone Peachey, Jamie Soward and Leilani Latu into the team by going to www.nrl.com and following the prompts.
Love Is Still In the Air Another Panther has decided to get engaged, with Trent Merrin and Sally Fitzgibbons taking to social media to make the announcement. Congratulations to Trent and Sally from everyone at Nepean News. See You At a Game in 2016!
29 Nepean News 12 November 2015 Issue 162
GOLDEN POINTS
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Nepean News 12 November 2015 Issue 162
MY WORDS WITH MARK GEYER
A BIG HAND FOR THE LOVELY LADIES
Hubba-hubba! The great Ronda Rousey.
A woman who roared – Michelle Payne.
WAY back in 1972 an Aussie female singer came up with lyrics to a song which are even more profound, some 43 years later. I remember as a 5-year-old hearing Helen Reddy’s song “I am Woman” and remembering, even as a wee lad, how powerful the words coming out of her mouth were. “I am woman hear me roar, in numbers to big too ignore”. Of what I didn’t know as a 5-year-old was that the song was about female empowerment, something close to Reddy’s heart. I thought I’d chime in on this theme and celebrate a couple of achievements from mighty impressive women. Let’s start with Melbourne Cup-winning jockey Michelle Payne who created history in becoming the first lady jockey to ever win the big one when she saluted aboard Prince of Penzance on the first Tuesday in November. What an effort. What an accomplishment. What a woman! In a severely male dominated industry one could only imagine the hurdles she has had to overcome to get to where she is today. We spoke to her on the Grill Team the day after her success and a better, more down to earth lady you’d never meet. Let’s hope this win by Michelle opens the floodgates for future female jockeys to find their voice and prosper like the unassuming Payne will. THE second lady I’d love to discuss is female UFC bantamweight champion, Ronda Rousey. This Saturday a group of 10 of us are traveling to Melbourne just to say we were there when Rousey fought. I know the sport of MMA (mixed martial arts) is a divisive one. You either love it or you hate it. Personally I think it’s the ultimate one-on-one sporting contest on earth. And lots agree!
Vale Robyn Campbell.
Bryce Tyrell and the Grill Team.
The UFC, the governing body of the worlds’ biggest MMA competition, is the fastest growing sporting organisation on the planet. And this Sunday it comes to Melbourne. We cannot wait to experience Rousey Mania! She has not only become an unbackable champion, she is now the biggest name on the impressive roster - men included. Again as Helen Reddy would say: “If I have to, I can do anything. I am strong, I am invincible, I am woman!” LAST Thursday the Grill Team travelled up to Matty Johns’ home town of Cessnock. After arriving and throwing our bags into our rooms, a mini-bus was organised to take us on a wine tasting tour. First (and last) stop, the famous Tyrrell’s winery. Bruce Tyrrell, son of Murray, and current owner, was our “tour leader”. Wow, what a day! Honestly if you’ve never been to the Hunter Valley do yourself a favour. It is one of the best places in NSW to de-stress. Bruce and his team were the consummate hosts, the Grill Team the happy testers. A big thanks to all the wonderful people of Cessnock who made us feel so very, very welcome. LASTLY to finish on a sombre note, my best mate, Luke ‘Spook’ Campbell, lost his mum, Robyn, on October 26 after suffering a major stroke. The ceremony at Pinegrove was, well was as good as a sad farewell can be. Spook has had a bad couple of years, losing his dad, Nev, nearly three years ago and now his wonderful mum. Love ya big boy and am always thinking of you.
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BARINA CD MANUAL CRUZE EQUIPE AUTOMATIC
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TRAX LS
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COLORADO 7 LTZ DRIVEAWAY
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Max. sale price on 1. Barina Spark 2. Cruze Equipe manual 3. Trax LS Automatic 4. Captiva Active 6. Colorado 7 Ltz sold and delivered by 30/10/15 unless extended, changed or while stocks last at participating Holden Dealers. Driveaway prices includes Dealer delivery, stamp duty, 12 months registration and compulsive third party insurance. Excludes Prestige Paint. Private or ABN buyers only. Not available with other offers.
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Thursday, 12 November 2015
sport
HARPO’S MARKS
T THEY had to be j joking! I’m talking a about the Victorian racing stewards for the penalty handed out to Frankie Dettori for his “ride ‘em cowboy” performance in the Melbourne Cup. Dettori ruined the great race as a spectacle, causing severe interference to any number of other runners when he shifted out sharply rounding the home turn aboard the eventual runnerup, Max Dynamite. You would have thought Alfred Nobel had ignited a stick of his infamous invention when Dastardly Dettori swung his mount away from the rails. Horses were sent skittling like 10pins! So what do the stewards deem a fit enough sentence to whack on Dettori for ruining what should have resulted in any number of horses figuring in the finish? Why, they fine him $20,000 and gave him a month’s suspension! $20,000 is just fob-pocket money to the wealthy foreign hoop and as for the month’s holiday out of the saddle
– well, that’s the biggest joke. Dettori would have been heading back to Britain for a long holiday anyway. It is now jumps season over there and all the big flat racing is finished until well into the New Year. “Flatten ‘em” Frankie would have been laughing all the way to his fob pocket!
SO Sam Burgess is returning to the South Sydney Rabbitohs, signing on the dotted line (I presume it was dotted) until the 2018 season. The bloke most happy with Sam returning from Rugby is the Rabbitohs’ owner, Russell Crowe. This is what Rusty stated in a text message to club members. “Sam is an amazing athlete, everybody knows what he can do on the field. He is a natural leader of men,” he wrote. “What he brings to the club off the field is hard to quantify. “He is a role model and takes the weight of that in his stride, he is a great ambassador, he is inspiring to be around, he loves the game, loves
the fans, he’s at ease with people and is generous with his time, he sets a tone in the dressing rooms that others respond to, there is a genuine core quality to Sam that engenders belief. “He is playing the game to win and that is never in doubt. It’s a tremendous day for our club that he is returning.” I do believe Rusty likes him!! Great player that he is, I don’t think Slammin’ Sam’s return is going to ensure the Rabbies can win the 2016 title. Despite his presence, they just don’t have the firepower in the back three of the scrum or off the bench and will definitely miss the outstanding Isaac Luke who has returned to the Land of the Long White Cloud. Speaking of which, I reckon the Warriors will certainly make a charge for the premiership next year now that Luke and the workaholic Ryan Hoffman have linked with the club. HIGH MARKS: Michelle Payne’s flawless ride to win the Cup. LOW MARKS: Dettori. I know where I’d love to shove a stick of dynamite!