Nepean News 14 February 2019

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ISSUE 245

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support Rushy MG says he couldn’t be a prouder westie after Penrith got behind a fundraiser for Shannan Rushmore at the Pioneer Tavern last weekend. Read more inside.

Carolyn’s Guide to Retirement Living in Western Sydney Meet Carolyn, an expert with years of experience in the retirement living sector. Here she continues her column sharing insights and answers to the frequently asked questions people have about living in a retirement village. Can visitors stay over if I move to a village? Yes, it is your home, so friends and family are most welcome to stay. Of course, other residents appreciate the fact that they know who their neighbours are, so for extended stays, residents need to talk to their village manager and let them know who is staying and for how long. For example, if your visitor is staying more than 30 days in a row, or for several months over a year, that will need to be documented and discussed with your village manager. Learn more about the benefits of retirement living and the exciting planned development of an over 55’s village to the community of Jordan Springs by calling Carolyn on 0430 189 447 or visit jordanspringsretirement. com. You can be amongst the first to receive VIP updates on the new development, home designs and how to buy.

local news

By KeRRIE DAVIES

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he Penrith community will soon enjoy an even greater selection of vibrant green spaces and recreational facilities along the banks of the Nepean River, including a new wharf precinct at Tench Reserve. Council has been talking with the Penrith community about the enhancements since 2013 and welcomed the State Government’s recent $10 million funding announcement to deliver these central elements of the Our River Masterplan. Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM said the funding boost will see a new wharf precinct replace the old boat ramp at Tench Reserve; as well as providing upgraded play areas and enhanced facilities along the river. “The funding for a new wharf precinct will transform one of the river’s best vantage points with better pedestrian access and a new promenade that makes the otherwise steep slopes of the river completely accessible,” said Cr Fowler. “These extensive upgrades will improve access to the river and allow even more residents and visitors to experience one of the region’s most significant natural assets,” Cr Fowler said. The announcement follows $15 million in

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government funding recently secured by Council under the Western Sydney City Deal’s Liveability Program, for upgrades to Regatta Park. Council will also contribute $9 million to the Regatta Park project. Last year, almost $6 million was committed by the State and Federal Government to provide a new three-lane boat ramp and additional trailer parking facilities at Tench Reserve, with this work scheduled for completion by mid-2019. “Delivering these enhancements along the Nepean River is a direct result of Council’s advocacy work and the strength of the community’s vision expressed in the Our River Masterplan,” Cr Fowler said. For more information on the Our River Masterplan, visit penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

Nepean News 14 February 2019 Issue 245

Enhancing Nepean River

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Nepean News 14 February 2019 Issue 245

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By KeRRIE DAVIES

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here’s an old saying that “behind every good man there’s a great woman” and I’d like to ride on the back of that line of thinking and say that “behind everything good there’s a really great senior.” Our seniors are literally the backbone of this country. They’ve been there, done that and seen it all. Yes, you grandchildren out there who know everything – they actually lived very exciting and colourful young lives long before you were even a thought! And they’ve lived to tell the tale - and are able to pass on some valuable lessons to those of us who are still striving to one day get there. They take up the lion’s share of volunteering work, they form the largest group of people who fought for our country and they’re our best-behaved citizens. And they’re often overlooked when it comes to discussing what is great about our nation. They’ve lived through times that younger generations could never imagine – they’ve survived depressions when sometimes the family meal consisted of bread and dripping, they’ve lived without television, computers, mobile phones and Facebook. Yet they never declared they were starving or bored! They rolled with the punches and came out smiling. Over the next couple of weeks, there will be events across the state as part of the 2019 Senior’s Festival. See inside for a great event at St Marys Rugby League Club or head to seniorsfestival.nsw.gov.au to see what else is happening. If you’re not a senior, take some time to talk with one. Your mum, dad, grandparent, neighbour - or seek out one of the active folk out playing bowls or bingo – and ask them about their life. Chances are you’ll find some human qualities that I desperately hope don’t disappear when their generation eventually does; like patience, consideration and respect. Bless you seniors, you really are our brightest shining light in a changing society.

local news By CONNER LOWE

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olyton local George Asciak has raised an outstanding figure for Nepean Hospital after a very successful 16th year of being Santa Claus and turning his home into a Christmas masterpiece for all local kids to enjoy. Although Mr Asciak had a week of weather to forget coming into Christmas which saw wicked winds, rain and hail, he still managed to reach his goal of $4,000 by raising $4,102.95. Mr Asciak spoke about how he felt about reaching the $4,000 milestone and what he hopes to raise for Christmas in 2019. “It’s fantastic that we reached our goal, it’s been going up higher and higher every year. If we had good weather we could have raised close to $5000, I hope to raise $4,500 for Christmas this year. It will be a ripper!” he said. “Even the staff at the hospital said to me, with the bad weather I did a great job to raise my highest total thus far. I managed to raise over $300 in the shopping centre and over $1,100 one Saturday alone.” Mr Asciak covers the costs associated with raising the funds out of his own pocket to ensure that the kids enjoy the display and that the hospital will benefit from the funds raised. “Last year I spent $1,600 on the electricity bill and this year I think it will be close to $2,000,” he said. “I spend between $1,500-$2,000 each year and put money aside from my pension so I can give the

children something when they visit. I love what I do for them and it’s why I continue every year.” Unfortunately, after all his good deeds Mr Asciak lost $500 worth of his Christmas light display from the horrible weather. Mr Asciak even lost his special Santa Claus’ sleigh chair and had to sit on a bench with the children while he handed them out gifts. Mr Asciak has done a fantastic job raising money for charities in the community and would like to see if anyone from the community would like to help him and donate a Santa Claus chair for this year’s Christmas. If you’d like to get in contact with George, his mobile number is 0423668873. Mr and Mrs Asciak would like to thank all the sponsors that include Lycan Group Pty Ltd, ABC Pest Control Service, Mick T’s Clothing St Clair, Australian Scaffolding, Marsden Street Fire

Nepean News 14 February 2019 Issue 245

Santa raises thousands for Nepean Hospital

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local news

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estern Sydney University will partner with Universities Australia, lead violence prevent organisation Our Watch, the Victorian Government’s Office for Women and other Australian universities, to develop a respectful relationships education program to be implemented across the Australian university sector. The program is part of the University’s ongoing commitment to preventing sexual assault and harassment, and promoting respectful relationships on campus and in our communities. The University will be one of four Australian universities that will contribute to this first-of-itskind education program and online training module, specifically tailored for Australian university students. Together with La Trobe University, Monash University, and Southern Cross University, Western Sydney University will work with Universities Australia and Our Watch to develop the online education module. Drawing on the best-available evidence and expertise from online learning and violence prevention experts, the program will be trialed with students over the next 18 months.

Western Sydney University’s Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Barney Glover AO, said the University is pleased to be one of four universities participating in the pilot project. “Preventing sexual violence is a society-wide challenge, and universities must continue to do

their part by promoting respectful relationships, and working with students and staff to improve campus culture,” he said. “We stand with our partners to address this important issue, and develop ways to prevent all aspects of sexual assault and sexual harassment.” The online education module is part

Nepean News 14 February 2019 Issue 245

Western Sydney University partners with leading experts

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of the wider Respect and Equality Program, which promotes gender equality in our universities. This also includes developing workplace standards for the university sector, and creating training packages, resources and toolkits for students, staff, senior leaders of universities, and the broader community.

Celebrate International Women’s Day #BalanceforBetter Join me to recognise the outstanding Women of Lindsay! Nominations are now open and close February 26. Contact 4722 0600 for nomination information. Authorised by Emma Husar MP ALP 331 High Street Penrith

Nepean News 14 February 2019 Issue 245

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STATE ELECTION

Tyndall: “Knee-jerk reaction to blow a $3 million hole locally” By KeRRIE DAVIES

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ndependent Candidate Mark Tyndall is running for the state seat of Penrith in March and, if he is unsuccessful, he’ll run for the federal seat of Lindsay. He believes measures put in place by the NSW Government to toughen up on drug use at festivals are a “knee-jerk” reaction that will impact many areas. “The Premier Gladys Berejikilian and the Member for Penrith, Stuart Ayres, purport to be the champions for local business, yet here in Penrith, that has lost all meaning and it is time that they put people before party. It is time ingenuity was valued over ideology,” Mr Tyndall said. “The foot on throat approach of the Premier and Mr Ayres appears to be strangling business owners and ripping millions from our local economy.” “In the face of complexity the government stripped away Sydney’s nightlife with the introduction of the lockout laws rather than addressing the real issue, our judicial system, and the drinking culture,” Mr Tyndall said. “Now we see a spate of cancellations for festivals and large events. It began with DEFQON and has spiraled onwards to effect many more small businesses around the state. “In Penrith alone the knee-jerk decision has left a $3 million hole in our local economy, which has a negative knock-on effect for the whole community,” he said. Mr Tyndall said after hearing the views of some of the businesses - who he said were afraid to speak up in fear of the consequences - he knew he had to speak up, even if the complexity of the issue is not easily understood. “If the government is unwilling or unable to face up to complex and nuanced issues that require compassion and understanding then the residents and local businesses of Western Sydney can make themselves heard on March 23rd . Making the choice for family focused decisionmaking, and policies for the public good,” he said. We asked what the voters in the Penrith electorate thought by posing the question on social media: “Do you agree with tougher measures to address illicit drugs use, or do you think this is over-governing?” While the results were varied, there seemed to be a fair bit of support for Mr Tyndall’s views. “As long as there is debate, people are talking about the issues and looking for solutions,” Mr Tyndall said. “That’s far better than just automatically shutting down everything.”

Independent Candidate for Penrith, Mark Tyndall says many local business people agree with him but are afraid to speak up.

Some of your thoughts via Nepean News facebook: Pjay Davidson The are killing festivals like they did to the Cross . It’s a police state Pam Stephanis Cancelling these festivals won’t stop those who take drugs but it’s sending a message that it’s not acceptable and there are consequences. Tough love... Sadly those who do the right thing miss out and so does the community who misses the cash injection. Joanne Vanderzwet Anyone who assumes that everyone who attends takes drugs are dumber than the people that actually do take the drugs. It makes money for our area and we need it since our Government both state and federal like to screw us over . Alex Berry $200,000 demand 7 days before a festival is not “over-governing”, its plain extortion. Any non government business that acted like this would be charged in court. Stacey Mandee Does Ms Berejiklian think that the only place people take drugs is music festivals? Christie Macgregor I think the rules should be tougher Sonja Glover Well I agree with her, if they don’t want to pay for the security plus every thing else people are dying experimenting with these dangerous drugs. Our young are dying from these festivals, good on her Paul Davies Yeah, how about close casinos, better yet lets levy! A user-pays health charge on the casinos of $100 per person visiting, per day. You know, because we care about the patrons, and we want them to have a good time, but we want them to be safe.... Justin Sane When has prohibition EVER stopped people from doing something? I’m still waiting for examples of successful blanket bans that stopped everyone from doing something.....

Next edition of Nepean News: 28 February edition

MASSIVE STATE ELECTION COVERAGE LIFT-OUT: LONDONDERRY - MULGOA - PENRITH Know your electorate / See what your sitting member has achieved during incumbency / See who your candidates are

local news

By Jim Devine

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hey say love conquers all and there’s one special local couple that can prove that their love for each other has stood the test of time! Emu Plains residents, Andy Heaton and his wife Peggy will celebrate their diamond (60th) wedding anniversary on the very romantic day of 14 February 2019;

St Valentine’s Day. The couple were married at St Andrews, Manly and moved to Cambridge Park in 1960. They have three children; Mark, Carolyn and Deborah. The also have six grandchildren and 4.5 great grandchildren (that’s one on the way!). Andy and Peggy have owned local businesses and during their time in the district, Andy has been

President and a Board Member of Leonay Golf Club, Emu Plains Lions and Nepean Probus. The Lions Club of Emu Plains wish ‘Moth’, a Member for 21 years and Peggy their best wishes for a wonderful celebration. The couple also received acknowledgements from the Queen, Governor General, NSW Governor, Premier of NSW and Stuart Ayres, State Member for Penrith.

Man suffers fractured skull A man recovered in hospital while a second was off to court following an alleged assault at Penrith last weekend. Emergency services were called to a licenced club on Mulgoa Road about 1:10am on Sunday 10 February, responding to reports a man had sustained head injuries after being punched during a scuffle with another patron inside the premises. They found a 20-year-old man suffering head injuries; he was taken to Westmead Hospital where he’s being treated for a fractured skull and bleeding on the brain. Police have been told the Hebersham man is in a stable condition. Officers from Nepean Police Area Command arrested a 19-year-old Bidwill man at the scene and took him to Penrith Police Station where he was charged with recklessly causing grievous bodily harm. He has also been charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm following the alleged assault of a second man who had intervened in the initial incident. The Bidwill man was refused bail to appear in Parramatta Bail Court. A 20-year-old man, from Claremont Meadows, who intervened in first alleged assault has also been treated at Westmead Hospital for facial injuries. He has now been allowed to leave.

Nepean News 14 February 2019 Issue 245

Love conquers all: Valentines for 60 years

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Nepean News 14 February 2019 Issue 245

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local news

Funding boost for mental health services in Lindsay

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iberal candidate for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh, has welcomed the LiberalNational Government’s announcement that headspace Penrith would receive over $1.6 million in funding to extend the Youth Early Psychosis Program. Ms McIntosh visited headspace Penrith and hosted a round table discussion with headspace staff, the CEO of the Nepean Blue Mountains Primary Health Network (NBMPHN), Lizz Reay, and Keith Hamilton, CEO of Parramatta Mission, to talk about the importance of the Youth Early Psychosis Program and the new funding model for Primary Health Networks. The Youth Early Psychosis Program provides specialist clinical services for young people at the early stages of severe mental illness. Ms McIntosh welcomed the news that headspace Penrith would receive over $1.6 million towards the clinical treatment of psychosis as part of the Liberal-National Government’s $110 million funding package for the Program’s extension across 14 different headspace centres. “Psychosis is a condition where a person has difficulty in telling apart what is real from what is not and, alarmingly, it disproportionately affects people under the age of 25,”

Ms McIntosh said. “Providing mental health services for young people is critical, so I am very pleased the LiberalNational Government has secured this funding for headspace Penrith.” The funding for the Youth Early Psychosis Program follows on from the announcement that the LiberalNational Government will change the funding model for Primary Health Networks to ensure the security of health jobs and services. Minster for Health, the Hon Greg Hunt MP, said the change in the funding model will ensure that the staff and mental health professionals who deliver these critical services will no longer face uncertainty on short term contracts. “This will allow longer term planning, provide job certainty for

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thousands of people employed in the sector, and deliver a stronger mental health system,” Minister Hunt said. Ms McIntosh said over a three year period, the NBMPHN is expected to receive over $22 million in funding, which she said will help support community-based mental health services, like Penrith headspace plan for the future. “We’ve been able to lock in this new funding model because our Government’s plan for a strong economy is working,” she said. Lizz Reay, CEO of Wentworth Healthcare, provider of the Nepean Blue Mountains Primary Health Network, also welcomed the funding announcement. “We are delighted by the Government’s announcement that

it will provide over $22 million and a three-year funding model to strengthen local mental health services and support job security in the sector,” Ms Reay said. “We, as Primary Health Networks, have been advocating for a three-year funding model for some time and I am pleased that the Government has listened to our concerns and taken action. “Three-year funding will allow us the opportunity for longer term planning, provide greater job certainty for those working in the sector and importantly, provide continuity for services – which will translate into the delivery of better mental health services in our community.” Keith Hamilton, CEO of Parramatta Mission, the lead agency within the NBMPHN which helps to administer headspace, said the headspace funding would deliver better local health outcomes. “This funding announcement is great news, and I welcome the Federal Government’s support of Penrith headspace,” Mr Hamilton said. “Youth Early Psychosis Program is particularly important, as early intervention is key. “The funding will better enable Parramatta Mission and headspace to support young people on their mental health journey.”

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Nepean News 14 February 2019 Issue 245

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STATE ELECTION

Smoking suspicion on incinerator stomped out By KeRRIE DAVIES

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he two major parties are adamant that there will be no incinerator in western

Sydney. Labor Leader, Michael Daley, visited Erskine Park last week and confirmed that if Labor is elected in March there will be no Western Sydney garbage incinerator but he claimed “locals are shocked to learn that the Liberals could revive the plan.” “I can’t be any clearer about this. There will be no garbage incinerator in Western Sydney. Western Sydney is not a dumping ground.” Mr Daley said. A spokesperson for the Minister for Planning, Anthony Roberts said Mr Daley’s claim was preposterous. “This is so out the bounds of reality that I thought I was reading the Beetota Advocate,” he said. “The Independent Planning Commission refused this project, the Department of Planning recommended against this project. The system is working.” In early 2017, Labor representatives joined community members and groups against an application for an incinerator that is said to have had the capacity to burn more than a million tonnes of waste per year. If approved, it would have been positioned close to schools and homes. Following significant community opposition, the incinerator application was rejected. However Mr Daley said the NSW government’s planning laws allow the developer to continually reapply for approval, which he says is causing the local community to live in continual fear of a future approval. With the election just seven weeks away, he said Labor is making its position on a waste incinerator in Western Sydney “crystal clear” and calling on the Liberals to do the same. Mr Daley and Labor Candidate for Mulgoa,

Todd Carney, were joined by members of the No Incinerator for Western Sydney community action group at James Erskine Park Public School, the closest school to the proposed site of the refused application. “Liberal MP Tanya Davies sat on the fence until it became clear the community was unanimously against it. Now, just weeks before an election, she is pretending to be against the proposal,” Mr Carney said. “Ms Davies should back Labor’s plan if she is serious about protecting this community.” Mr Carney said Mrs Davies and the Liberals “have been more interested in the eastern suburbs stadiums than in stopping this incinerator.”

Mr Daley made a solid declaration regarding any plans for an incinerator in the area.. “If I become Premier this incinerator will not proceed. I will kill this stone dead,” he said. Mrs Davies fired back claiming that “the Labor Party are playing politics with people’s lives. “I am appalled that the Labor candidate stood outside a primary school and lied to the people of Erskine Park. This is blatant scaremongering by an out of touch candidate,” Mrs Davies said. “There was never a Government plan for an incinerator at Eastern Creek, that has not changed. Daley is playing dirty-politics at the expense of my community.”

Free glasses for disadvantaged school kids

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SW Labor Leader Michael Daley announced that Labor, if elected, will provide free glasses to the state’s most disadvantaged students. Under Labor’s plan, 52,000 schoolchildren from Kindergarten to Year 3 at NSW schools with a low socio-educational index will have their eyes tested and those who need glasses will get a pair free. Children in about 480 schools will benefit based on the Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage. “Labor’s plan will not only help children learn, it will take pressure off the family budget,” Mr Daley said. Mr Daley said currently there are no programs that ensure that children’s eyes are tested once they begin school. Only four-year-olds attending preschool are offered vision screening. Labor will ensure registered optometrists or supervised final year optometry students go directly into schools, conduct the tests and refer kids, in Kindergarten to Year 3, for free follow-ups and free glasses. While eye tests are free under Medicare, research indicates some parents may avoid taking their children to an optometrist due to concerns about costs. Without access to free eyesight testing in school, many children and their parents could be unaware of vision problems. Mr Daley said the existing means-tested NSW

Government’s Spectacles Program misses kids that don’t detect they have a vision problem and doesn’t guarantee glasses to those that need them. A recent survey found one third of children under the age of 14 has never had an eye test. “I want all kids in NSW to have the same chance at school. Good vision is critical to good learning,” Mr Daley said.

“I don’t want any child falling through the cracks because they missed out on an eye test or glasses in their early school years.” He added that when vision problems are left undiagnosed in children there is a risk they can be misdiagnosed with learning difficulties. This policy has been fully funded and costed by the Parliamentary Budget Office (PBO).

STATE ELECTION By KeRRIE DAVIES

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HE NSW PREMIER says up to 65,000 Western Sydney road users a day will benefit from a $480 million investment by the NSW Liberals & Nationals Government to slash travel times and improve safety for motorists, with major upgrades to Mamre and Mulgoa roads. Premier Gladys Berejiklian said “investing hundreds of millions of dollars in Mamre and Mulgoa roads was only possible through the strong economic management of the NSW Liberals & Nationals Government.” “Thanks to this Government’s strong financial management, we can invest in projects such as Mamre and Mulgoa roads, which are critically important to residents and businesses in western Sydney,” Ms Berejiklian said. “We want to make life easier for those who use Mamre and Mulgoa roads, reducing time stuck in traffic.” Mamre Road will be upgraded along a 3.8 kilometre section to a four-lane dual carriageway between the M4 Motorway and Erskine Park Road, with an investment of $220 million. “This will transform the existing two-lane undivided road into a fourlane divided road, providing a safer, higher-capacity link. The Mamre Road

upgrade will also be future proofed, allowing another two lanes to be added down the track,” Ms Berejiklian said. The initial stages in the expansion of Mulgoa Road are already underway, jointly funded with the Federal Government, to increase capacity from four to six lanes between Union Road and Museum Drive. The next phase of this jointly-funded work will be between Jeanette Street and Blaikie Road, starting next year. Under this announcement, the NSW Liberals & Nationals Government will fund a further $260 million in upgrades of Mulgoa Road, from Jeanette Street to Glenmore Parkway and Jamison Road to Blaikie Road. “Mulgoa Road carries 3,800 vehicles per hour during the morning and afternoon peak. This project will tackle congestion and delays along Mulgoa Road during the peaks,” Ms Berejiklian said.

Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres said Mulgoa Road was an important connection for the Penrith community. “Mulgoa Road is the spine of the local road network and every single person in Penrith knows it needs to be wider,” Mr Ayres said. “We have just started widening Castlereagh Road underneath the railline and today’s additional investment will accelerate the widening of Mulgoa Road by many years. “This will reduce congestion and better prepare Penrith for the future.” Member for Mulgoa Tanya Davies said she was pleased a NSW Liberals & Nationals Government would step in and fund these crucial upgrades. “This is a fantastic outcome for my community. For too long the people of St Clair and Erskine Park have battled to turn on to Mamre Road, often making risky decisions with grave consequences,” Mrs Davies said.

“Last year I called on the Federal Government to recognise Mamre Road as part of their strategic plans for the Western Sydney Airport and to provide urgent funding. Over 2000 residents signed the petition to see Mamre Road urgently upgraded. “Every day that Mamre Road is not upgraded more lives are at risk. Today I am proud to announce that through our advocacy the NSW Liberals & Nationals Government will step in and upgrade Mamre Road.” Labor Candidate for Mulgoa, Todd Carney said Labor would match the funding but questioned the timing and whether the funding was dependent on the incumbent Liberal members holding their seats. “Of course, Labor will fund major upgrades to Mamre Road and Mulgoa Road to reduce traffic and cut down peoples’ commute,” Mr Carney said.. “A Daley Labor Government will deliver this commitment regardless of the outcome of the election for the seat of Mulgoa. “The Liberals have known about this problem for eight years, they’ve only announced the funding 43 days before an election.” “Will the Liberals still fund this project if Tanya Davies doesn’t win?” he said.

Penriths streets safer with cctv cameras

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mall businesses and community groups in Penrith will be able to take advantage of funding to install CCTV cameras to make our streets safer, under a program to be delivered by the NSW Liberals & Nationals Government. Stuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith welcomed the announcement of $5 million over four years to implement the program, which will commence in Western and South‑Western Sydney, with small businesses and community groups in the Penrith local government areas to be among the first to be eligible to participate. “This is great news and a real step forward in the fight against crime and anti-social behavior in our community,”

Stuart Ayres said. Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the investment reinforces that community safety is the NSW Liberals & Nationals Government’s top priority. “More CCTV cameras will increase community confidence and send a strong message to would-be criminals that if you do the wrong thing, you will be caught and punished,” Ms Berejiklian said. Police Minister Troy Grant said the program will continue the NSW Liberals & Nationals Government’s strong record of investment in local community safety initiatives, including the Government’s commitment to deliver 1500 new police to put more cops on the beat.

“CCTV camera footage can be a vital source of information for NSW Police when gathering intelligence and investigating criminal activity, and acts as a deterrent to criminals, reducing the likelihood of crime,” Mr Grant said. Stuart Ayres said the program will deliver funds directly to local small businesses and community groups. “This will empower our community to make our local streets even safer,” Stuart Ayres said. Eligible community groups and small businesses will be able to apply for up to $5000 in funding, and will have their applications assessed by officials from the NSW Police Force and the NSW Department of Justice, from April 2019.

Construction on new Jordan Springs school begins The construction contract has now been awarded for the new Jordan Springs Public School with building works at the Cullen Avenue underway. The new school, tipped to open in 2021, will provide 28 classrooms, a library, school hall and outdoor learning spaces for the local Jordan Springs community. Education Minister Rob Stokes said the NSW Liberals and Nationals were building schools that will be able to serve our communities for

generations to come and this new school is a great example of that, Liberal Candidate for Londonderry Belinda Hill said the new school will be capable of accommodating up to 600 students when it opens, however the design will allow for an additional 400 student spaces to be created as the area grows. “Our area is growing, and we must ensure we have the school facilities our community needs both now and into the future,” Ms Hill said. The NSW Government

is investing $6 billion over the next four years to deliver more than 170 new and upgraded schools to support communities across NSW, including a school at Mulgoa Rise. In addition, the government has announced that a record $1.3 billion is being spent over four years to clear the school maintenance backlog, along with a record $500 million for the sustainable Cooler Classrooms program to provide air conditioning to schools.

Lollipop supervisors for Ropes Crossing and Claremont Meadows schools LIBERAL Candidate for Londonderry has also welcomed the announcement of more lollipop supervisors as part of a $18.5 million investment over four years by the NSW government to fund 300 more school crossing supervisors. “Keeping our kids safe is our number one priority,” Premier Gladys Berejiklian said. “School crossing supervisors play an important part in road safety for our children.”

Nepean News 14 February 2019 Issue 245

Liberals commit further $480 million for roads

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Legends of the Nepean Wayne Willmington By Noel Rowsell

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Vintage FM Managing Director Wayne Willmington with his 1984 Junior Citizen of the Year plaque and 2016 Citizen of the Year certificate.

intage FM Managing D i r e c t o r Wayne Willmington is a household name in the Nepean District, heavily involved in numerous community and business organisations. Wayne first came to the notice of the community as a young man, winning the Penrith Junior Citizen of the Year award in 1984. That success was undoubtedly a launching pad for a lifetime of service to the community, which resulted in Wayne being named Penrith Citizen of the Year in 2016. The staggering list of community involvement / commitment begins with membership in the Luddenham Bush Fire Brigade from 1974 to 1996, where he served in varying roles including Equipment Officer, Training Officer, Secretary (‘78-’87)

and Deputy Captain (‘82-’88). Wayne is also a long-standing member of the Luddenham Show Society since 1976, including Committee Member (1984-2019), President (1987-1993 and 20132019), Vice President (1994-95 and 2008-12), Treasurer (19962007), Life Member since 1998 and inaugural Chair Person of the Planning Committee. Wayne has been a member of the Luddenham Progress Association since 1976, a member of the Executive Committee since 1982, Publicity Officer and Chairman of the Social Committee (which runs the Luddenham Dances) for the past twenty years, Senior Vice President and Assistant Secretary in 2014, President since 2015 and also a Trustee of the Luddenham Progress Association. He was a Foundation Member of the Nepean Community Radio Society in 1976 (Penrith’s first Community

Wayne Willmington was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Greg Davies. If you know a local legend, send us a nomination at nepeannews@aol.com

 1984 Penrith Coucnil’s Young Citizen of the Year Award Winner

Radio Station) and in 1979 also became involved with Macarthur Community Radio 2CT. In 1981, Wayne was a Foundation Member of the Badgerys Creek AntiAirport Group and also Secretary for four years, heavily involved in organising meetings and rallies against the proposed airport. A lot of water has passed under the bridge since 1981 and he is now a firm advocate of the new airport, serving on Forum of Western Sydney Airport (FOWSA) and working with local residents and all levels of Government to not only get the best outcome for Luddenham but also to keep residents informed and up to date. Wayne regularly meets with both the CEO and the Management team from the airport to discuss residents questions and suggestions.

 2016 Penrith Citizen of the Year, awarded by Mayor Karen McKeown

Wayne was a Foundation Member of the Warragamba and Silverdale Chamber of Commerce in 1981 and in 1982 founded the Warragamba Festival Committee, was inaugural President for three years and also involved in the Bold Jack Donahue Festival (forerunner to the now ‘Damfest’. A passionate supporter of the Luddenham district, he commenced writing a book on the history of the town in 1982, which was first published in 1992 and re-printed in 2013. Wayne was a committee member of the Luddenham Hall & Church Centenary in 1986, a committee member for the Luddenham School 150 Years anniversary in 2010, founded the Luddenham Bicentenary Committee - Chairman in 2013, in 2014 was involved with the committee looking

to bring a Community Bank (Bendigo Bank) to Penrith – resigning in 2015; in 2014, elected to the Executive of the Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce and was also on the Advocacy and Events Committee of the Chamber. Subsequently he was elected as Vice President of the Chamber in 2016 and then President in 2017. As if the community services weren’t enough to keep an average person incredibly busy, Wayne has also enjoyed a highly successful business career, beginning with owning a bread run business in 1978 with runs in Luddenham, Wallacia, Mulgoa, Warragamba and Silverdale. In 1981, he opened a Record and Electric shop in Warragamba, later adding a Video Rental Library and an agency for the United Permanent Building Society.

Our legend set up Australia’s first 24-hour Video Rentals Service into 24-hour Service Stations in both Penrith and Kingswood. In 2003, his company purchased the Caltex Depot in Penrith and held it until 2010, when Caltex bought back the franchise. He launched Vintage FM in 2009 in Penrith and Vintage FM in Camden in 2014, during which time he introduced the Target Radio Network consisting of four Radio Stations broadcasting World-Wide over the Internet. The number of stations has risen to twelve, in addition to being available on multiple Apps. Wayne has a laid-back attitude towards his extraordinarily busy work and community commitments, saying “I’m use to working seven days per week and being involved multiple nights – sometimes two or three meetings in a single night”. “My father used to say to me,’ Did you make a difference today?’ and my own view is ‘how much did I achieve today?” Wayne said.

Wayne resides in Luddenham with his wife Ann with whom he has two lovely children, Clare (26) and Jack (18).

Nepean News 14 February 2019 Issue 245

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local news Enjoying the golden years: answers to everything at Seniors Expo

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he NSW Seniors Festival is the largest festival for seniors in the Southern Hemisphere, reaching up to 500,000 seniors each year. This year there are more activities than ever between Wednesday 13 February - Sunday 24 February with almost 200 events taking place around the state. And if you’re looking for something close to home, head to St Marys Rugby League Club’s inaugural Seniors Expo. As we enter the golden years, many of us are filled with questions, how do we best manage our health, our finances, our travel plans and where will we live? These are just some of the questions that plague us and all the answers can be found in one place by heading to Saints. The Expo will take place on Saturday February 16th & Sunday February 17th from 10am to 4pm each day and is free to enter with plenty of free on-site parking. If you have a question about health and wellbeing, or would like to investigate retirement living options, you’ll find all the answers you need under the one roof at Saints Seniors Expo. Exhibitors include travel companies, retirement homes, hearing specialists, seniors’ aids, in-home services, mobility aids, recreational companies, health & wellbeing organisations and so much more.

7pm - 9.45pm ★ Dinner & Show

Saturday 23 March • Henry Lawson Theatre $45 Members - $49 Non Members

Bookings Essential ★ Limited Seating ★ 9623 2119

local news

Most people associate desexing with prevention of pregnancy. While this is an important, there are many more benefits that far outweigh any risks. Desexing is recommended for all pet animals even if kept alone. Australia has relatively high desexing rates but we still have issues with unwanted litters, overpopulation and unwanted animals being left with shelters and pounds. Dogs and cats will reach sexual maturity from about 6 months of age, ferrets from 4-8 months and rabbits from 4-10 months. Females can have multiple litters in a year especially cats and rabbits who breed rapidly. Generally, the recommended age for desexing is just before or at sexual maturity. The desexing procedure for female animals is an ovariohysterectomy, surgical removal of the ovaries and uterus. This prevents pregnancy and the animal cycling (also termed being in heat or being in season). The desexing procedure for males is castration where the testes are surgically removed. This prevents testosterone and sperm production. When a female cycles a large amount of oestrogen is produced and causes a range of physical and behavioural signs. In dogs the vulva becomes swollen and a clear to bloody discharge is produced for 3 weeks. Female cats will show no physical signs but their behaviour changes dramatically. They will become overtly affectionate and will vocalise constantly. They will continue to cycle until they become pregnant. This behaviour can be very frustrating. Female ferrets will also stay in season until they are pregnant with life threatening consequences if they are not bred. The prolonged estrogen exposure causes bone marrow suppression and they develop

severe anaemia which will leads to death. Prolonged oestrogen exposure can cause issues later in life. Dogs are prone to getting mammary cancers, uterine cancers and pyometron. Pyometron is a life threatening uterine infection. Rabbits can suffer from uterine cancers, pyometron, endometritis (inflammation of the uterus) and aneurism (bleeding into the uterus). The incidence of uterine cancer in undesexed rabbits is as high as 80%. Cats can suffer from mammary cancers. Desexing prevents all uterine diseases and dramatically reduces the incidence of mammary cancers. Once males reach puberty they constantly produce testosterone, affecting their body and behaviour. The most significant clinical effect of prolonged testosterone exposure in males is prostate disease. This is seen mostly in dogs. Over time the prostate enlarges, causing painful issues with urination and defaecation. It is more prone to infection and without castration the infections can be difficult to resolve. In entire males, testicular cancer is another serious issue. It is most commonly seen in dogs but can be seen in other species. Male rabbits can also suffer from testicular abscess and haematomas. Animals with undescended testicles are at a higher risk of testicular cancer and this trait will be passed to the next generation. Desexing these animals is recommended. Desexing prevents testicular cancer and reduces the risk of prostate disease. Desexing also reduces a range of unwanted behaviours. For male dogs and cats, it dramatically

reduces mounting behaviour, aggression and urine marking. It also reduces roaming, which in turn reduces the incidence of trauma and infection from fighting and being hit by cars. Cats will have reduced risk of FIV (feline AIDS) that is contracted by fighting. It reduces the odour of urine from males, most notable in cats and ferrets. It also reduces preputial discharge in male dogs. Desexing reduces aggression in female rabbits and urine marking in female cats and rabbits. So, what are the negative effects of desexing? The most notable is weight gain. Reducing estrogen and testosterone can cause weight gain but this is easily controlled with diet change to reduce calorie intake. The risks of other diseases after animals are desexed have been widely studied. It appears for other cancers the risks are unrelated to desexing and more important factors are environmental exposure and genetics. In dogs contributing factors for the development of hip dysplasia and cruciate ligament rupture are multifactorial. They include body condition (being overweight), body size and genetics. There is an increased risk if dogs are desexed before puberty and the bones are still growing. There has been reports of early desexing in cats causing issues with behaviour (increased shyness and reduced socialisation), small body size and narrow urethra predisposing to urinary blockage. However, no link has been found for these issues and early desexing. Animals rehomed with rescue organisations are generally desexed at an earlier age before rehoming to prevent unwanted breeding. Some people prefer to desex animals once they are fully grown. There is no recorded behavioural benefit for letting your female have a season or have a litter before desexing. Behavioural benefits for desexing will be more effective if done earlier in life. If you have any questions about desexing please contact the clinic.

Nepean News 14 February 2019 Issue 245

Why is desexing recommended for our pets?

17

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

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ENTERTAINMENT

SUDOKU: EASY

Nepean News 14 February 2019 Issue 245

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SOLUTIONS: 31 January EASY

HARD

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

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Messages (14) 10 Ancient Assyrian city (5) 11 Hurricane (9) 12 Collision (7) 13 Ammunition chest (7) 14 Anagram of “Idler” (5) 16 Retired person (9) 19 A yellowwood tree with aromatic leaves (9) 20 Cloak (5) 22 Bunnies (7) 25 Oxygenated (7) 27 Uplifting (9) 28 Make use of (5) 29 Odd behaviors (14)

solution 31/1/19

DOWN 2 Hindrances (9) 3 Wetland (5) 4 NY Times, for example (9) 5 Cone-shaped (5) 6 Gives evidence (9) 7 Woodwind instruments (5) 8 Class (7) 9 Roman ruler (6) 15 A family of languages spoken in southern India (9) 17 Homesick (9) 18 Bargain (9) 19 Small fatty fish (7) 21 Interfere (6) 23 Simplified (5) 24 Move about rapidly (5) 26 Respond (5)

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ENTERTAINMENT

Nepean News 14 February 2019 Issue 245

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The Gospel According to Paul P

aul Keating – razor sharp, whip smart and master of the ultimate one-liner - is brought to life on stage in The Gospel According to Paul at The Joan on 8 and 9 March. One of Australia’s favourite performers, Jonathan Biggins, is Paul Keating – visionary, reformer and rabble-rouser – in this highly anticipated new comedy. Full of intelligence and spark, The Gospel According to Paul is a funny, insightful and occasionally poignant portrait of Paul Keating. The man that – as he tells it – single-handedly shaped contemporary Australia. Jonathan Biggins’ performance as Paul Keating is well known from the long-running Sydney Theatre Company success story, The Wharf Revue. Beyond the canny impersonation, Jonathan, like so many Australians, has long been fascinated by Keating and what Keating means to Australia. Showcasing his eviscerating wit, rich rhetoric and ego the size of Everest, The Gospel According to Paul distils Keating’s essence into 75 minutes. It shows the man who grew up in the tribe of the Labor Party and gained an education at the knee of Jack Lang, who treated economics as an artform, and demanded we confront the wrongs of our colonial past. Biggins asks the question – what can we learn today from this singular politician, and the momentous time in our country’s history he dominated? The Gospel According to Paul, 8 & 9 March at The Joan, is selling fast, so audiences are advised

to purchase tickets soon to avoid disappointment. Tickets can be purchased online at www.thejoan. com.au, by phone 4723 7600 or at the Box Office. On 9 March, go a little deeper with a Q&A with Jonathan Biggins following the 2pm matinee performance and a pre-show talk with consultant director Aarne Neeme at 6.45pm, ahead of the 7.30pm performance. These are free of charge. Audience Advice: Coarse language Tickets: Standard $60, Concession $55, Under 30s $30.

FULL TEAM OF CAST & CREATIVES Jonathan Biggins / Written By & Starring Aarne Neeme / Director Mark Thompson / Designer Verity Hampson / Lighting Designer David Bergman / Sound/AV Designer For more information please visit: www.thejoan. com.au/events/the-gospel-according-to-paul/

st patrick’s Irish Fry Up day Traditional Irish Breakfast in the Shamrock Bistro

SUNDAY 17TH MARCH

Open 8am – 10pm Irish breakfast all day Performances of Irish dancing throughout the day $5,000 St Patrick’s Day Raffle drawn at 8.30pm

entertainment

3rd Sunday each month from 9am-12pm

SUNday 17 FEBRuary

Starting

Soul Jamz 1.30pm-5pm Lenny Duff 5.45pm-9.15pm Blackwater 9am-1pm

Shamrock Grill SPECIALS Annual St Patrick’s Day LUNCH 12 - 2.30pm - LUNCH SPECIALS $10 Charity Golf Day MONDAY Barramundi Night $15 FRIDAY 15TH MARCH Dunheved Golf Course Tee Off 7am | Tickets $85

TUESDAY Steak & Ale Night $15 WEDNESDAY Bangers & Mash Night $15 THURSDAY Parmy Night $15

Includes green fees, breakfast roll & a 2 course lunch at the Gaels Club from 12pm

Prizes & Raffles • Lunch Only $40

Between 5 & 8pm (Conditions apply)

Numbers are limited - Book early

SUNDAY - Sunday Roast $17.50 Members $18.50 Non Members

All profits go to the Ronald McDonald Family Room Nepean

FREE ENTERTAINMENT FRIDAY 15 FEB - 8PM

SATURDAY 16 FEB - 7PM

FRIDAY 22 FEB - 8PM

SATURDAY 23 FEB - 7PM

SUNDAY 24 FEB - 2.30PM

Skyz The Limit

Soul Jamz

Sideshow Annie

Rock Solid Duo

Blackwater

Nepean News 14 February 2019 Issue 245

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ENTERTAINMENT

Free outdoor cinema screening

This Saturday enjoy a free outdoor cinema screening of Mamma Mia! and relax under the stars without spending a cent - not a bad thing after school holidays. Mamma Mia! is an instant classic featuring an all-star cast set to the songs of ABBA. Filmed in the beautiful Greek islands, this feel-good escape is the perfect chance to sail away from your work or school plans. A perfect free Valentine’s date, the romcom movie centres around a wedding and all the love, chaos and laughs that come with it. Rated PG, this film is a winner for dancing queens, mums and daughters or anyone who loves a good sing-along - dads and kids are in for a good laugh, too. Head along to Victoria Park this Saturday from 6pm. Screening from dusk (approximately 8pm).

Who’s down for dirty dusting?

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or those who are looking for a good laugh The Acting Factory Inc has just the production to have you in stitches. The company is starting the 2019 season with a laugh-out- loud comedy ’Dirty Dusting’ by Ed Waugh and Trevor Wood at the Penrith RSL. When three cleaners, Olive, Gladys and Elsie, are threatened with redundancy it feels as if their lives are coming to an end. That is, until a chance wrong number gives them a new business idea. They’ve got motive, opportunity and a lifetime of experience – some more than others, mind you. Be prepared for a romp of mature, adult themes and quite a lot of innuendo. This play is a searing indictment of ageism in the 21st century heavily disguised as a hysterical, laugh-out-loud, heart-warming comedy. The production is hosted by Penrith RSL Club, as part of the Seniors’ Week entertainment and will open on Friday night 22 February 2019 at 8:00pm. The following performances will be matinees on Saturday 23 February at 2:00pm, Saturday 2 March and Sunday 3 March both starting at 2:00pm

Tickets are competitively priced at $25 for Adults and $20 for Concession and RSL members. Bookings can be made online www.trybooking. com/ZVLD. Otherwise a call to 8250 0888 will take bookings. We are also confident that a few seats will be available at the door on the days of performances. You are warmly invited to The Acting Factory’s first production for 2019 - with a promise of great entertainment that should not be missed.

NEPEAN HISTORY

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

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velyn Grace Ione Nowland was born in November 1887 at Penrith. She was the daughter of Edward Joseph Nowland a carriage-builder from South Africa and his wife Marie Louisa (née Maguire) from Mudgee. Evelyn, (known as Ione) at the age of 29 years undertook training at Sydney Hospital, passing her final examinations in September 1915 when she registered with the Australasian Trained Nurses’ Association in May the next year. In May 1917, she enlisted in the Australian Army Nurses Service (AANS) and embarked from Melbourne on the “Moulton” in June along with 272 other nurses. With a brief stop in July at the Suez, the ship arrived in Salonika in August. Ione served in the AANS as a staff nurse (photo) in the No. 3 Mediterranean Expeditionary Force at the military hospitals from August 1917. By the end of 1917, members of the AANS made up one fifth of all nurses in British Hospitals in the Salonika area. The Australian nurses sent there became pawns in the Imperial game. Frustrated by not being allowed to take part in what they saw as “real war work”, they longed to join other members of the AANS on the Western Front. Confusion and conflict between Australian and British authorities over the administration of these nurses caused the nurses countless problems, and geographical and cultural factors increased their strong feelings of isolation. The British nurses in Salonika were eligible for three weeks leave to England on a regular basis, but there was no such provision for the Australian nurses. In August 1918, it was recommended that leave be introduced for them, with free transport to and from England due to the number of Australian nurses being invalided out. But before this happened, Ione was sent to the 52nd AIF General Hospital in October 1918 suffering from “nervous debility” (a nervous disorder, usually related to stress physical or mental, e.g. burnout, too much overwork, sleep deprivation, etc., resulting in symptoms like depression and, anxiety) and in December she was invalided to Australia on the “Leicestershire”, arriving in January 1919 and was discharged in May. In March 1920 at St Philip’s Church of England, Church Hill, Sydney, she married Lieutenant William Charles O’Toole (formally from the 2nd Pioneer Battalion AIF), a surveyor at the Grafton Lands Office and son of Mr & Mrs William O’Toole of Ryde. Ione was given away by her cousin Colonel F A Maguire D.S.O (later A.D.M.S - 3rd Division AIF), but the childless marriage ended in divorce in June 1923 and Ione resumed her maiden name. In 1925 the State minister for health appointed her assistant to the registrar of the newly established Nurses’ Registration Board, set up under the Nurses Registration Act (1924). With the assistance of a number of inspectors she was responsible for inspecting training schools. In 1928 she was living at “Guveshe” Challis Avenue at Turramurra and appalled by the conditions under which nurses lived and worked in many hospitals. In 1931 she agreed to a request to help to form a nurses’ union in New South Wales. Also, at that time a Miss Clancy began working separately on the idea of a union for nurses and both women were brought together by Jessie Street, an activist, a feminist and a lifelong campaigner for women’s rights, the peace movement and the elimination of discrimination against Aboriginal people. Lady Jessie worked throughout her life to improve the status of women, both in Australia and overseas and

saw the improvement of nurses’ wages and conditions as a feminist cause. The move was prompted in part by legislation of the Lang Labor government to make union membership a compulsory condition of employment. Fearful that they could be required to join a conglomerate union, nurses saw the formation of an exclusive union as a preferable alternative. In March 1931 Ione called the founding meeting and became the first President of the New South Wales Nurses’ Association with Georgina Johnstone as secretary. Ione demonstrated confidence and courage when she accepted this role while holding a senior government position. One of the first tasks was to obtain an award governing wages and conditions and she guided the union’s case through the Industrial Commission. Her profession was by no means united in this endeavour. The Australasian Trained Nurses Association that had been established in 1899 as a credentialing association, disapproved of legal regulation of nurses’ conditions and opposed the case in the Industrial Commission. Nevertheless, the initial award was granted in 1936 and for the first time there was uniformity of pay and conditions for nurses in public and private hospitals in the State. Soon after, she resigned as President and for some years apparently worked as a private nurse in Sydney’s northern suburbs. Described as ‘a trim figure’, 5 ft 5¾ “ tall, with brown eyes and in her youth short brown hair, she was outspoken and always definite about her beliefs. The New South Wales Nurses’ Association was registered as a trade union in New South Wales in November 1945 and by this time it had amalgamated with the Trained Mental Nurses’ Association (May, 1945). It was the registered union for all nurses in New South Wales in both public and private sectors. The membership of the Association comprised all those who perform nursing work, including Assistants in Nursing, Enrolled Nurses and Registered Nurses at all levels, including management and education. With the exception of Assistants in Nursing, the members were also members of the Australian Nursing Federation (ANF), a Federally registered industrial organisation who formed the NSW Branch. Mass meetings of nurses originally called to discuss the National Health Services Bill was held in January 1949 in the British Medical Association Hall in Macquarie Street. This meeting led to resolutions to establish the NSW College of Nursing with the eventual aim to become the NSW branch of a Federal College. All major professional nursing organisations in NSW, the NSW Nurses Association and the institute of Hospitals Matrons of NSW and ACT were involved in the eventual establishment of the NSW College of Nursing. A Provisional Council met six days later, and the College was launched. One of the founding members was Georgina McCready (nee Johnstone) MBE, the very same nurse who was the original Secretary of the NSW Nurses’ Association in 1931. She was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire in June 1963 for services to nursing. At the Association’s 2012 Annual Conference the name of the organisation was changed to the NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association. Ione died in November 1974 in a convalescent home at Roseville and was cremated. Georgina, who was born in Scotland died in 1980. Sources: M. Dickenson, An Unsentimental Union (Syd, 1993), H. Radi (ed), Jessie Street (Syd, 1990), Australasian Nurses’ Journal, Apr 1920, p 124, NSW Industrial Registry, Sydney, Ione Nowland service record & photo (National Archives of Australia), National Library of Australia, Australian Dictionary of Biography, Australian National University, WW1nursesgravesecrets.net (Website), NSW Nurses & Midwives Assoc (Website), Encyclopedia of Australian Science (Website), Guns & Brooches by Jan Bassett.

Nepean News 14 February 2019 Issue 245

A Nurse with vision

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FINANCE AND REAL ESTATE MATTERS in motion coupled with a personable approach, broad industry knowledge, and an unwavering understanding that real estate is a customer service industry - and you are the customer. As the sale of a home is often an emotional journey for sellers, an agent who is forthright and honest with their vendor can provide a sense of security in a time that may be fraught with insecurity. Real estate is a dynamic industry that changes every day and keeping vendors informed of all the information gathered at an open for inspection puts the vendor in the best position when it comes to deciding on an offer. How many people came through, what they said, and comparables in your area change constantly. A capable agent will be able to evidence these variables to build an honest relationship that will empower their vendor to make informed decisions.

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

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hoosing an agent to represent the sale of your home can be an overwhelming prospect. With early considerations to be made for marketing, staging, open for inspections, conveyancers, finance, and more, the often overlooked yet fundamental aspect is strength in negotiation at the final stage of sale. An agent with the ability to foresee variables and adapt to unique challenges during the sales process, from beginning to end, will be your most valuable asset. You should be able to see years of experience in relationship building with vendors and buyers

The trust to have tough conversations and vision to work together as a team helps keep the end goal in mind. This is when the paramount skill of negotiation comes into play. Often an underutilised asset, vendors and buyers are at times unaware that anything can be negotiated - time, leaseback, settlement periods, or tree removal may represent a monetary value during a deal. The most unusual items that we have negotiated have been cars or even livestock on rural properties. Hence the ‘art’ of negotiation - vendors can be somewhat inflexible on price if they are flexible on other negotiable items such as outdoor furniture or the perfect sized fridge. So remember while agent A, B, or C may get the same buyers through their properties, the agent you want is the one that is going to use their skills to negotiate the best deal for you.

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

Affordable boutique living right on Queen Street

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MAGINE being able to stroll from your boutique apartment nestled in the heart of St Marys to the many restaurants available. Imagine also being so close to public transport that you could say goodbye to the expenses of running a car. These are just some of the luxuries you could enjoy by purchasing your own brand new apartment on Queen Street. Marigold on Queen is the first boutique apartment building in St Marys. Planted within the flourishing precipice of Western Sydney, it presents growth and positivity at every opportunity. An official launch of Marigold on Queen was held recently, and the excitement in the air from potential buyers and local business representatives was electric. Deputy Mayor Greg Davies was in attendance and spoke about the transformation of the St Marys area,

its increase in population and its future hub potential with the delivery of the North South Rail Link and Western Sydney Airport. “I believe the position for these boutique apartments has been chosen very wisely,” Cr Davies said. “”We are a city of growth and limitless opportunity as well as being uniquely positioned. We have an exceptional reputation as a venue for a wide range of international events, a food scene that is attracting notice for all the right reasons and world class institutions.” And with only 34 spacious living spaces on offer, this refined new residence will create a community spirit that is nothing less than brilliant. Warmth and vitality radiates from each aspect of Marigold. Follow the flow of the open floor plan to your private balcony, where many apartments will

behold one-of-a-kind views of the Blue Mountains. Inside, your bedroom’s ample wardrobe space is set up in a unique walk-in configuration – a carefully-considered layout feature that you’ll only find in a TRICON apartment. Marigold’s interiors are finished in a neutral yet contemporary-chic look, ready for your personal style to bring it to life. The finest of quality is ever-present within a Marigold residence; engineered timber flooring in an elegant woodgrain draws the eye to gleaming stone benchtops and striking tapware. The kitchen shines – literally – with a mirrored splashback and De’Longhi stainless steel appliances. In the bathroom, every detail evokes a statement of relaxation – from the chic oversized tile, to the frameless shower screen and free-standing bathtub. For more information contact 1800 717 621.

Nepean News 14 February 2019 Issue 245

Ask the Expert - The Negotiation

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Nepean News 14 February 2019 Issue 245

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SPORT

Young gun on the rise: Ryan Fletcher By STEWART MOSES

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@TheRiffMarn

uch has been made of the success of Ryan Smith and Luke Hodges with the ball in first grade for Penrith this season. But up and coming fast bowler Ryan Fletcher, has also had a season to remember in 2018-19. The Emu Plains / Glenmore Park junior has unassumingly claimed 43 wickets across all competitions including 15 wickets in first grade at an average of 18.2 and a strike rate of a wicket every 28.4 balls at an economy rate of 3.8 runs per over. Earlier this season Fletcher claimed his first five wicket haul for the club in the Poidevin Gray competition before taking his initial five wicket haul in the top grade no less, helping the club to a massive outright win over Northern Districts. Fletcher says it was his aim this season to get a five for, but couldn’t believe it would happen in first grade. “I had a chat with our second grade captain earlier in the year and I said my goal was to take a five for,” Fletcher revealed to the Nepean News. “I had one in PGs and two sixth grade ones but I haven’t actually taken a grade five for before.

Ryan Fletcher has also had an outstanding 2018-19 season capturing 43 wickets to date. Credit: Michael Gibson.

“It was a good to get it but I certainly didn’t think it would come in first grade first. “It’s a massive step for me to take those five wickets. It’s a monkey off my back.” While Fletcher’s rise to first grade has been rapid, it hasn’t been all plain sailing despite making his first grade debut late last season. “I had a bit of tough time at the end of last season and I probably didn’t do myself any favours,” Fletcher admits. “I got my break in first grade but didn’t really take those opportunities as I would have liked so to do. “I was still very young and very inexperienced in grade cricket. “I only played a handful of games in twos prior to making my first grade

debut. “I think I played maybe ten third grade games and five or six second grade games. “I think it was a leap of faith from the club and that was shown with the number of overs I bowled.” Fletcher had to bide his time in second grade at the start of this season, before getting his second chance in the top grade and the young fast bowler says he feels more at home in first grade under the leadership of current skipper Ryan Smith. “This season is a step forward for me. I had to bide my time in twos before coming back up but seven wickets versus Northern Districts has given me that reassurance that I do belong here,” Fletcher declared.

“There has been a lot of work behind the scenes that also helped me realise that as well. “But with a different captain who has a lot of faith in everyone who comes up, it gives you confidence when your captain has your back. “I think Bomber is the perfect person for that job (as skipper).” Fletcher became hooked on cricket from an early age when he filled in for a cousin that went overseas and while he may have missed out playing Green Shield for Penrith, despite being a junior representative cricketer for Penrith from the age of eleven, it didn’t halt his progress as a grade cricketer in the long run. “I had a couple of years in Colts and played under some proven captains that showed me that cricket isn’t the be all and end all and just to enjoy it,” Fletcher replied. “I was lucky enough two seasons back to make the jump from sixth grade to playing almost a full year in third grade. “I think I played three games of fifth grade and two games in fourth grade and the rest since has been in 3s 2s and 1s. “I took quite a few wickets that year in third grade and it gave me that confidence to be able to show that I was able to play as a higher grade cricketer and that I could do what I set out to do in my head.”

The Giants re-sign star defender Haynes By CONNER LOWE

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h il e it’s still preseason the Giants have been busy on and off the training pitch after announcing they have re-signed star defender Nick Haynes. Nick Haynes has inked a five-year contract extension with the Giants to keep him in orange until the end of 2024. Haynes, an inaugural Giant, was due to come out of contract at the end of the season but the 26-year-old moved quickly to cement his place in Western Sydney for a further five years. The news of Haynes’ signing comes on the same day small forward Brent Daniels also extended his time with the club, re-signing until the end of 2021. Jason McCartney, Giants List Manager said securing Haynes and Daniels’ signatures is fantastic news as the season edges closer. “Firstly, to sign Nick Haynes on a five-year deal is a big coup for one of the most reliable defenders in the competition,” he said. “Nick goes about his business quietly and sometimes doesn’t get the

plaudits externally, but we see him as one of the most impressive defenders in the game and a key part of our defensive set-up. “He’s a fantastic person and a great contributor to our football club and we couldn’t be happier to have him commit long term to the Giants. “To also secure the signature of Brent is a great result, he’s an impressive young man on and off the field and we’ve been delighted by what he has brought to our group since he first walked through the door 12 months ago.

“We’re excited to get these deals done before the season starts and are looking forward to another big year at the Giants.” Haynes was drafted to the Giants with pick seven in the 2011 NAB AFL Draft with the former Dandenong Stingrays forward making his debut in round 10, 2012 playing through the midfield and up forward. A switch to the backline proved a turning point for Haynes who has gone on to cement himself as a key member of the Giants’ defence, playing a crucial role in the club’s

three successive finals campaigns. Haynes is coming off a career-best season, playing all 24 games and finishing fifth in the club’s Kevin Sheedy Medal. “I’m really excited to sign a longterm contract extension with the club,” Haynes said. “I love this club and I love Sydney. I’ve now spent nearly eight years here, so I truly consider it home. “I re-signed because I absolutely believe in where this team can go, and I want to be part of building this club for long-term success.” 20-year-old Daniels played seven games in a row in his debut season in 2018 after being selected at pick 27 by the Giants in the 2017 NAB AFL Draft. Growing up in Swan Hill in country Victoria, Daniels moved to Geelong to board for high school and will be looking to build on his first season in the competition in 2019. “It’s great to be able to add another two years to my contract before my second season even starts,” Daniels said. “It was such a learning experience to move to Sydney and start my career as an AFL footballer and I’m ready to put my best foot forward over the coming years for the Giants.”

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Penrith poised to bounce back from outright loss Penrith’s middle and lower order batsmen once again came to the rescue of a failing top order to post a more than reasonable 294 runs against Mosman last Saturday on a low and slow turning Howell Oval wicket. Sent into bat, Penrith were in trouble early at 3/32, with star batsman Ryan Gibson again dismissed cheaply, this time for 7. But a middle order revival led by Cameron Weir (51) and Brent Williams (41) had the Black Cats primed for a decent total, before three quick wickets had the hosts in trouble once more at 6/138. But the tail wagged, putting on another 156 runs for the final four wickets, with younger brother Trent Weir top scoring with 54, (scoring his maiden half century for the club in any grade in the process) and ably assisted by Luke Masters (39) and Ryan Smith 29. Ryan Smith was thrilled his side was able to post a competitive total given his side has had its’ fair share of struggles with the bat in recent times. “Absolutely pleased to scrap our way to 294 considering we were 3/32 at the start,” Smith told Nepean News. “Howell Oval often doesn’t offer much for the bowlers coming into the last session and we were able to take advantage of that and bat quite sensibly.” The Black Cats find themselves back amongst the finals pack in third position following their previous round’s two wicket outright loss in what was a thrilling top of the table clash against Sydney University. Sent into bat, Penrith lost 4/1 midway through their innings to be dismissed for 121. Sydney University passed the total seven wickets down before being dismissed for 146, with Smith taking career-best figures of 7/59. A slightly improved second innings (155) saw Penrith set the Students 131 runs for victory from just 23 overs. As was the case in the first innings, Sydney Uni’s top order struggled, but a tough dropped chance midway through proved costly as the fifth wicket added 80 runs. Sydney Uni lost 4/6 within sight of victory before finally claiming maximum points with two balls to spare. Smith took 3 wickets, giving the skipper just his second first grade career ten wicket haul in a match whilst rookie Henry Railz also chimed in with three wickets. Smith spoke after the game about how there were positives for the team to take away from the result but admitted batting could have been better despite the challenging conditions. “It was a positive that we were able to stay in the

season as an opener, has been approved by Cricket NSW to revert back to batting in his preferred position at number 3.

Brent Williams was in fine touch during his innings of 41. Credit: Michael Gibson.

game throughout both innings, especially when we bowled,” Smith replied. “Obviously day one, the wicket was doing a fair bit. “Usually when you come here to play they are fairly flat wickets. “But we didn’t value our wickets as much as we could have. “It’s not ideal to lose wickets in pairs let alone in fours (4/1) and we are starting to make a habit of it which always puts us on the back foot.” Smith also said dropping veteran opener John Di Bartolo to second grade was a tough but required decision. Di Bartolo, has scored just 147 runs at an average of just over 16 in the Belvidere Cup, since scoring 63 v St George in round 4. “Johnny would say himself that he hasn’t had the best of seasons so far,” Smith declared. “He has been around the traps long enough to know that you need to be scoring runs to play first grade and currently isn’t in the best form. “Hopefully he can regain that form and come back up really soon.” Ryan Gibson is another player who hasn’t set the Belvidere Cup on fire for quite some time, having averaged around 11 runs per innings since October. But the Penrith skipper, thinks Gibson, who scored 63 runs in this week’s Toyota Futures clash, will see his hard work and dedication at training pay off sooner rather than later. “It’s not great but Ryan’s a class player who hasn’t had a few things go his way this year,” Smith reaffirmed. “He is hitting them really well at training and is hitting more balls than ever before. It’s only going to be a matter of time before he finds that form that he is renowned for.” Smith also confirmed that Gibson, who began the

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Meanwhile Smith was scathing of the decision taken to employ Gibson as 13th man for the second test played against Sri Lanka at Canberra’s Manuka Oval, which ruled him out of the top of the table clash against Sydney University. “I don’t want to sound too political, but I think it was unfair that a player of his quality while obviously not scoring as many runs as he would like to, for Cricket Australia to come over the top of Cricket NSW and say they want someone with first class experience to run drinks was a bit silly,” Smith declared. “ACT Cricket had a few guys available but Cricket Australia didn’t want them, just those with that first class experience.” Meanwhile the Black Cats, who are sweating on the outcome of Cam Weir’s back injury, finally welcome some troops back with Tyran Liddiard and Ryan Hackney (pending final medical clearance) set to play this Saturday against Mosman. Smith also remains hopeful that star bowler, Josh Lalor, will play in this Sunday’s one-day competition quarter-final clash with Sydney Uni, now that the Brisbane Heat’s BBL season is over. Lalor had arguably his best season in the BBL to date, finishing as the equal third leading wicket taker with 20 wickets including just the competition’s fourth hat-trick. It’s been a big week for Pat Cummins, who has not only risen to number two in the latest test rankings released last week but was announced on Monday night as the Allan Border Medal winner for 2019. Ryley Smith showed his abilities to back up less than 24 hours after playing a starring role in the opening game of the Harold Matts season for the Penrith Panthers to play in the Poidevin Gray semi-final v Mosman last Sunday. However it was to no avail as the defending champions were soundly beaten by 35 runs. Mosman were in trouble at 7/121 but recovered to set Penrith 190 runs to win on a turning Howell Oval wicket. With Tyran Liddiard and Adam Burton on Impaja Cup duties and Ryan Hackney still injured, Penrith slumped to 7/82 before being dismissed for 154. Sydney University have extended its lead over Penrith in the club championship to almost 300 points, courtesy of wins in 1s, 2s and 4s, while 5s was abandoned.

Nepean News 14 February 2019 Issue 245

BEHIND THE STUMPS

with Stew Moses

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Nepean News 14 February 2019 Issue 245

28

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Local golf clubs tee off in Major Pennants By Noel Rowsell

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en local Golf Clubs are competing in the 2019 NSW Golf Major Pennants Series, which got underway over the weekend. Overall, the results were almost evenly split from the opening round, with six wins and four losses at the completion of

the weekend. Leonay GC defeated Bexley GC 4.52.5; Penrith GC defeated Killara GC 5-2; Springwood CC defeated Windsor CC 5-2; Dunheved GC defeated Kogarah GC 5-2; Richmond GC defeated Beverley Park GC 4-3 and Glenmore Heritage Valley GC defeated Twin Creeks GC 4-3. Wallacia GC were swamped 0-7 by Asquith GC and Stonecutters Ridge GC lost 2.5-4.5 to Cabramatta GC.

Action sequence of Leonay GC 2018 Club Champion Dave Moore teeing off against Bexley GC in Round One of the 2018 NSW Golf Major Pennants. Photos courtesy of Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

AWF Wrestling February Fallout Report By CONNER LOWE

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WF Event Photographer: Rhys Heppell The Australasian Wrestling Federation hosted its first live event at Penrith PCYC on Saturday night, 9 February in front of an enthusiastic crowd made up of fans local and who had travelled to see some exciting live AWF pro-wrestling. A card with many exciting moments, storyline twists and exceptional athleticism was on display, and provided a great night of wrestling entertainment for those in attendance. In some of the most noteworthy moments of the event Whiskey Sixx defeated Adonis with the “Whiskey Shot” 450 splash, popular AWF Tag Team Champions Djayonic and Albie retained their Titles against Mr Mortis and Shane Saw, Queensland’s JL Gold upset TNT with assistance from Adonis, and in the Commonwealth Championship Main Event The Misfit spat black mist in the eyes of Cedric Brave behind the referees back and followed up with a Death Valley Driver for victory. At the conclusion of the show Detonation Crew team mates of Brave; TNT and Whiskey Sixx came to their partners aid, and the scene was set for the next AWF

live event on Friday 1 March at Blacktown Bowman Hall. Matt Svenson, the AWF Commissioner spoke after the event about the audience on the night and the success of the event. “I was pleased to see many young people attending live wrestling for the first time and having an amazing time,” he said. “The AWF put on a super fan friendly and interactive event, and the atmosphere was exciting. I hope to see these new supporters and more at the upcoming AWF Live event in Blacktown, as it promises to be another fantastic night, and will

level up on the stories and action that unravelled tonight.” AWF will return to Penrith PCYC in mid 2019, and will host live events on 1 March at Blacktown Bowman Hall, and 20 April in Parramatta RSL. For all tickets and details visit www.awfwrestling.com.au Show Breakdown: AWF February Fallout, Saturday 9 February, 2019 Penrith PCYC - Penrith, NSW Match Results: International Attraction: El Jaguar (Mexico) defeated Keegan Brettle (USA), Rematch: Wesley Williams defeated Chris Rukker, Interstate Bout: Whiskey Sixx (NSW) defeated

Adonis (QLD), AWF Tag Team Championships: DNA: Djaysonic & Albie defeated Darkness In Eternity: Shane Saw & Mr Mortis, Interstate Bout: JL Gold (QLD) defeated TNT (NSW), Interstate Tag Team: Elite Wrestling: Falco & Linstrom (NSW) defeated Dan Archer & Xander Bolt (ACT), AWF Commonwealth Championship: The Misfit defeated Cedric Brave Card set for AWF Back In Blacktown on Friday 1 March at Bowman Hall Blacktown: DOUBLE MAIN EVENT AWF Commonwealth Championship: Whiskey Sixx Vs The Misfit (C) AWF Tag Team Championshjips: Team USA: Keegan Brettle & Eric Walker Vs DNA: Djaysonic & Albie UNDERCARD FEATURE BOUTS Factions Warfare: Darkness In Eternity Vs Detonation Crew First time Fight: Darius Vega Vs Deadly Shot Kasai Interstate Battle: Adonis & JL Gold (QLD) Vs Falco & Linstrom (NSW) Interstate Battle:Freddy Gold (VIC) Vs G.U.N (NSW) Rematch: Wesley Williams Vs Chris Rukker Plus more exciting attractions to be announced soon!

PVSF Junior Sportsperson Award By CONNER LOWE

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he Penrith Valley Sports Foundation has awarded Tyler Brown from Glenmore Park the Junior Sportsperson Award for the month of January for his development and skill in Rugby Union. Tyler joined Penrith RSL Junior Rugby Union Club in their second year (2015), when they were still in their infancy. Tyler is an incredibly talented rugby player who has led each team he has been a part of around a rugby field over the last four years. Tyler last year played in the under 9’s competition and has consistently

preformed for his team and pushing his team to succeed. Mini’s rugby (U6 - U9) do not celebrate individual achievement in the way the junior rugby club does (U10 U16), however Tyler has unequivocally been the stand out performer each year. Tyler spoke about how he felt to win the award and what about the sport he loves the most. “I was very surprised and happy. I love all sports and it was nice to be recognised for my efforts,” he said. “I love all sport. I love being active. In Rugby I like being a part of a team, getting to know new people and working alongside others. I love scoring tries, tackling and making runs.

“My greatest achievement for Rugby Union was when I went down to Canberra to player 7’s. I be trying out for reps this year now that I am old enough. I made it to CIS for Cross Country last year and CSSA for swimming.” Stephen Boyle, the Mini’s Rugby Coordinator and Vice President of Penrith RSL Junior Rugby Union Club spoke about Tyler’s skill in the sport and how dominant he has been for the club. “Tyler is a wonderful tackler and prolific try scorer, whose skill is only overshadowed by his team spirit and humble nature. His competitiveness and heart leads others around the field, while his individual

contribution has won many a game or kept the score-line respectable,” he said. “To recognise him as a player and as a standard for which other young sport persons should emulate would be wonderful for him and his family and reinforce that in my humble opinion he is on the path to rugby success in the future. “If club awards were available. Tyler would have achieved the minis MVP four years in a row,” he added. We would like to congratulate Tyler on his award from Penrith Valley Sports Foundation and to continue striding for success in Rugby Union for the future.

SPORT By STEWART MOSES

P

@TheRiffMarn

enrith skipper Ryan Smith is on the verge of achieving a number of milestones in what is his finest season since making his first grade debut back in 2008/09 Smith currently leads the Sydney first grade cricket competitions for wickets taken in both the Belvedere Cup (42) and overall first grade wickets (48 - which includes the T20 competition). To put that into context, Smith is already seven wickets up on his previous best season haul of 41 with three rounds still to play. In 2018-19, Smith also recorded his best ever first grade figures of 7/59, took just his second ten wicket haul in a match and to top it off also bagged his 300th first grade wicket in the recent top of the table clash with Sydney University. But as the skipper explains he would gladly trade in the personal milestones for a Belvedere Cup trophy at seasons’ end, a goal that is very much obtainable with the team currently sitting in third position. “As long as we are winning cricket games I wouldn’t care if I’m not taking a swag of wickets and I’m down the bottom of the wicket-taking list,” Smith revealed to Nepean News. “If we win the Belvidere Cup that would be a bigger achievement for everyone. “I don’t really look at it as a personal goal that I set out to achieve at the start of the season. It’s all about taking wickets for the team, not for myself.” Smith is also just 13 wickets behind Penrith Cricket Club’s first grade record for most wickets in a season, which has withstood the test of time since the 1973-74 season at 61 wickets. The Bullaburra junior admits it would be a honour if he were to capture that record given the amount of hard work Smith has put into his cricket in recent years. “It’s nice to feel that the years of hard work is starting to pay off,” Smith replied. “That would be an awesome achievement if I could get there but as we know, cricket is a funny

Penrith’s Ryan Smith has led from the front taking 48 wickets thus far in 2018-19. Credit: Michael Gibson.

game and I might not take another wicket all season. “But if I am taking wickets and we are winning games then that’s all I worry about. “It would be great honour if I get it but we’ll play it by ear as we go.” Smith says his season to remember can be credited to the added responsibility that captaincy brings. “This season is my best season by far and it could be that the captaincy might be having a domino effect by trying to do as much for the team as I can,” Smith declared. “I’m feeling good. I just think that I am bowling with good rhythm and I am enjoying leading the side. “I feel that leading from the front is one of my best attributes and hopefully the guys are enjoying their cricket.

“I think winning games and always being in the contest is the way to get the best out of the guys so I’ll continue to do everything that I can to try and win for them.” An injury interrupted 2017-18 has also spurred Smith to train harder than in the off-season leading into this season. “I was pretty confident that I could overcome those injuries from last season but at the same time I knew I had to work pretty hard on my fitness in the off season to be strong for the season ahead, given the toll bowling can place on the body,” Smith said. “Bowling is one of those things I love doing and I’ll put in whatever hard yards are required in the off season to make sure that I (touch wood) get through the season as injury free as possible. “A change in job has also helped me get to Kevin Chevell’s gym a bit more too.”

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Nepean News 14 February 2019 Issue 245

Penrith skipper Ryan Smith on the verge of greatness

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Nepean News 14 February 2019 Issue 245

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PENRITH PANTHERS

GOLDEN POINTS with Stew Moses

@TheRiffMarn

KEY SPOTS UP FOR GRABS AS SEASON EDGES CLOSER Much of the discussion around the Panthers as they have worked through their first preseason under coach Ivan Cleary has centred around the battle for the fullback and hooking spots. Dylan Edwards returns from a seasonending shoulder injury hoping to reclaim his custodial role from his replacement, Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, who finished the season in scintillating form for both Penrith and then as Kiwi skipper, once given the opportunity to play in his preferred position at fullback. Then there is the starting hooker role. There is intrigue as to whether Ivan will want to go with just the one specialist hooker and carry a utility on the bench such as Tyrone May or whether the hooking role remains shared as it did for much of last season between Sione Katoa and Wayde Egan. While there are upcoming trials to come against South Sydney and Parramatta, it would appear that injury setbacks to WateneZelezniak and Katoa, might just give Edwards and Egan the early jump for those positions in time for the season opener against the Eels. Speaking of injuries and a knee injury has put paid to Dallin’s chances of being available for the Maori All Stars team that takes on the Indigenous All Stars at AAMI Stadium this Friday night. There will be still be strong Penrith representation at the game nonetheless, with Dean Whare, James Fisher-Harris and James Tamou named in the Maori squad while new recruit, Tyrell Fuimaono has been picked in the Indigenous squad. Meanwhile rumours regarding Canberra’s interest in signing Dylan Edwards as a means of freeing up Jack Wighton to partner Aiden Sezer in the halves, have subsided for now after the Raiders recently signed Warriors lower grades fullback Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad. Another rumour that did the rounds during summer was a setback to Sam McKendry whilst in rehab from a third consecutive knee reconstruction, was set to see the Kiwi international prop retire. However McKendry was quick to quash the rumour via social media and his comeback remains

place at the Coogee Bay Hotel in November last year. Penrith has confirmed that Dean Blore, Shawn Blore, Billy Burns, Spencer Leniu, Brayden McGrady and Brian Too will be the club’s six nominated development players for 2019, paving the way for them to play in the NRL midway through the season, should the need arise. Panthers fans are invited to meet n greet their favourite player when the NRL squad will hold Centre Court at Westfield Penrith next Thursday 21st February from 6-7pm.

Will Wayde Egan or Sione Katoa nail down the starting hooker’s position in 2019? Credit: 77 Media.

on track for around May or June this season. But whether or not the off-contract prop forward sees any NRL action with Penrith in 2019 remains to be seen given he is no longer part of the Top 30 squad. Despite some minor injury setbacks, it would seem that Penrith will head into pre-season trials with arguably one of their strongest squads available for selection in recent years after the likes of Nathan Cleary, James Maloney and Reagan Campbell-Gillard were all given the green light to make their return from off-season surgery / injuries. It’s been revealed what roles, Ivan’s two assistant coaches, Peter Wallace and Cameron Ciraldo will play in 2019. Wallace will help co-ordinate Penrith’s attack while Ciraldo, who was pipped at the post for the Cronulla NRL coaching role by John Morris, will be responsible for defence. Liam Coleman is due to appear in court again in March after pleading not guilty to a string of charges including aggravated indecent assault that stem from an alleged incident that took

Expectations of another strong membership season are high with the Panthers currently having 16,232 members ahead of the 2019 season, up nearly 1,000 on the same time last year. Penrith are well and truly on track to sign up over 20,000 members again in season 2019. Penrith’s ISP side will play a trial game against Manly’s feeder club Blacktown Workers this Saturday at 3pm at Panthers Stadium. Meanwhile the ISP draw for the upcoming season has still yet to be officially released by the NSWRL only weeks out from the competition proper. Round One of the NSWRL Junior Representative season got underway last Saturday at Panthers Stadium, with mixed results: Tarsha Gale: Penrith def. Sydney Indigenous Academy 28-10 Harold Matts: Penrith def. Sydney Roosters 44-16 SG Ball: Penrith def. by Sydney Roosters 42-18 The draw over the coming fortnight is as follows: SG Ball: R2 v North Sydney (home), Sat Feb 16 1:30pm; R3 v South Sydney (away), Sat Feb 23 2pm Harold Matts: R2 v North Sydney (home), Sat Feb 16 12pm; R3 v South Sydney (away), Sat Feb 23 12:40pm Tarsha Gale: R2 v Bulldogs (home), Sat Feb 16 10:30am; R3 v Newcastle (away), Sat Feb 23 10:30am. See you at the game #PantherPride

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Rushing to support Rushy

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iving in Penrith makes me proud. This was even more emphasised last Sunday at the Pioneer Tavern where close to 400 people turned up to raise money for Shannan Rushworth and his family. Shannan was assaulted on February the 3rd on Mulgoa Rd. He was rushed to hospital and has spent the past week and a half in intensive care. Four men have been charged with the callous attack and because it’s an ongoing police matter I’ll leave it for them to sort. Shannan is the UFC’s and fellow Westie Tai Tuavasa’s training partner. He’s also great mates with the Te Huna brothers James and Tama, who also train aspiring mma fighters. The Te Huna boys, along with Tama’s wife Kristal decided to put together a fundraiser at the Pioneer Tavern last Sunday. With the help of publican Trent Pittaway and his wonderful staff the day was a massive success with over $10,000 raised on the day through various charity items donated by more than generous locals. Shannan’s Mum delivered an opening speech that had most of us reaching for the tissues. She and her family and Shannan’s friends have been through a torturous week and a half. Last Sunday’s turnout not only proved that Shannan is a very popular bloke, it also proved that if you’re ever in need of help Penrith is the one place you want to live! The generosity displayed yesterday confirms that those of the 2750 postcode’s blood should be bottled. Bravo to all concerned as we all send our best wishes to “Rushy” and his family xx And another thing... There aren’t too many opportunities in our working lives where we can stand side by side with our kids. Well I recently got the opportunity to do so with my oldest daughter Montanna. For the past 12 months Montanna has been an ambassador for Sinclair Hyundai Penrith, now I am too #smileyface I’d like to thank Toby Hughes for the opportunity to not only work along side my daughter but to be welcomed into the Hyundai family. We have some great things planned over the next few months. I’d also like to thank the Turner family from Heartland Motors for the last 5 years working with them too. So it goes without saying if you’re after a new car go in and see Toby and tell them that MG sent ya. (That could be Mark or Montanna). See you at the game in just under 30 days!! Can’t wait!!

MG (random Westie) OAM

 Great turnout at the Pioneer Tavern for a great cause

 Welcome to the team

31 31 Nepean News 14 February 2019 Issue 245

MG on the mark

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