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By Jim Devine
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ARLIER this month, the Lions Club of Emu Plains in conjunction with Evan Jangil, Store Manager for Woolworths at Emu Plains, organised to run a ‘food trolley drop’ for the benefit of the Salvation Army. Woolworths shoppers were asked to donate one ‘extra’ non-perishable item above their normal shop by placing it in the designated Salvation Army trolley, located at the checkout. This initiative between Emu Plains Lions and Woolworths Emu Plains relied on the generosity of Woolworth’s shoppers from Emu Plains, the tenants of the Lennox Village, ‘Woolies’ staff and the surrounding community, and was rewarded with approximately (L-R) Jim Devine (EP Lions), Evan Jangil, Sue Hunt (EP Lions). 27 trolleys full of goods! Photo courtesy of C Devine. The staff from the Salvation “We know how much this food will bless families Army Freedom Centre were ‘blown away by and individuals who are struggling to make ends the generosity of the Emu Plains community,’ meet. Thank you to all who gave so generously,” according to Andrea Martin, Greater West Team she said. Leader for the Salvation Army.
NOVENA
Thank you Lord Jesus for all the blessings given to my family, especially my daughter. May the name of the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and praised throughout the world forever. Amen.
Prue Car MP Member for Londonderry
Ph: 9833 1122 154 Queen Street, St Marys londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au Authorised by Prue Car MP. Funded using parliamentary entitlements.
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MELISSA McINTOSH MP FEDERAL MEMBER FOR LINDSAY Ground Floor, 331 High Street, Penrith NSW 2750 02 4722 0600 melissa.mcintosh.mp@aph.gov.au www.melissamcintosh.com.au MelissaMcIntoshforLindsay Authorised by Melissa McIntosh MP, Liberal Party of Australia, Ground Floor, 331 High Street, Penrith NSW 2750.
Nepean News 19 March 2021 Issue 299
Food drop a great success
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n 31 March, the Royal Australian Air Force will mark 100 years of service to our country. It is an important time to reflect on their enduring contribution to the security of Australia. From modest beginnings in 1921, our Air Force has grown into a potent, world class Air Force which Australia relies upon in both conflict and peace. To quote a line from their website, “When Australia needs us, we are ready to respond.” Air Force Centenary events will highlight the spectrum of air and space power capabilities in today’s Air Force, and Air Force’s contributions to the Australian Defence Force’s Joint Force effects more broadly as part of One Team, One Defence. The curve ball thrown at us named COVID has no doubt made it difficult to plan celebration events across the nation to mark the milestone of our magnificent Air Force in all the grandeur that it deserves. But despite the challenges, Air Force 2021 is planning a national series of events and initiatives that will honour the sacrifices and service of the last 100 years, demonstrate today’s highly capable force, and foreshadow our continued evolution into the future. We honour and thank all those who have led and those who continue to lead; those who’ve served and those who continue to serve. We appreciate the sacrifice of those who have been injured, and we remember and pay tribute to those who lost their lives. It takes a huge amount of bravery, self-discipline and a dedication to serving Australia and its people to join our Defence Forces. We are so proud of every single person who has made that commitment over the last 100 years.
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HE state government is providing $75,000 in funding towards a new play space in St Clair thanks to the NSW Government’s Everyone Can Play program. The David Currie play space upgrade is one of 37 projects across NSW that will share $7 million in funding from the Everyone Can Play (ECP) grant program. This upgrade will provide improved pedestrian access, increased shade, accessible seating and multiple play opportunities for residents within St Clair, nearby schools and sporting fields. Member for Mulgoa, Tanya Davies said play spaces are a key community asset that bring people together in a fun and welcoming environment. “Great public spaces are essential infrastructure for any city or town and this upgrade will have a large positive impact on the St Clair community,” Mrs Davies said. “Creating inclusive play spaces gives all members of our community, no matter their age or ability, a place to come and relax and play.” Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said the 37 successful projects in the third phase of the ECP program follow 71 play space projects previously funded by almost $8 million.
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Stuart Ayres MP Member for Penrith
“This is a wonderful program that is focused on improving public areas in our communities, particularly those affected by the recent devastating bushfires and drought,” Mr Stokes said. “These inclusive play spaces will be focal points for rebuilding these communities as well as public spaces that people of all ages and ability can come to play.” The Everyone Can Play program was established in 2018 as part of the $290 million Open Spaces and Greener Sydney package. The NSW Government has committed $20 million over five years to creating inclusive play spaces.
Phone: 4722 8660 Email: penrith@parliament.nsw.gov.au Shop 23, Tattersalls Centre, 510-534 High Street, Penrith Authorised by Stuart Ayres MP. ‘Funded using parliamentary entitlements’
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More inclusive play spaces patioman
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local news
Community-minded Joh named Penrith Woman of The Year
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tuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith presented Joh Dickens with a Local Woman of the Year Award in recognition of the significant support she has given to the Penrith community. Stuart Ayres commended Joh on the achievement, acknowledging her hard work for the region. “Joh never hesitates to go above and beyond to serve and support the Penrith community with donations of her time and donations of floral arrangements and gift certificates.” “I congratulate Joh on this welldeserved honour,” Stuart Ayres said. “Joh continues to make a tremendous contribution to our community with an unflagging passion for making Penrith a better place.” The Local Woman of the Year Awards is an annual program which recognises and celebrates the support women give to their local communities throughout NSW. Joh has owned and operated her local floral business, Kingswood Florist & Creative Balloons for over
30 years. Joh is known throughout the local community for being a strong supporter of local businesses and not for profit organisations. Joh is a longterm supporter of numerous local charities and fundraisers including: Pink Up Penrith, OZWAC, Music
for Life, Luke Priddis Foundation, The Haven – Women’s Shelter and International Women’s Day. She is an active member of the Penrith Rotary Club and is the incoming Vice President for 2021. Joh has been heavily involved with industry groups
within the floral community including Chairman of Interflora NSW ACT for 8 years and President of the Professional Florist Association for over 10 years. Joh is a member of the Penrith PCYC committee and is a former board member of the Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce. Minister for Women Bronnie Taylor congratulated the state’s Local Woman of the Year Award recipients. “These women are the backbone of their communities, volunteering their time and energy to make a positive difference,” she said. “I would like to acknowledge their significant efforts to support their local communities and thank them for all the work they do.” The Local Woman of the Year Awards are a way the NSW Government celebrates the achievements of women as part of International Women’s Day on March 8, 2021. The NSW Women of the Year Awards will be held at the International Convention Centre, Sydney on March 10, 2021.
Female tradie named the Londonderry electorate Woman of the Year
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rue Car MP has announced that the Londonderry Woman of the Year for 2021 is Madi Mercieca. Madi is a local tradeswoman who lives in Londonderry and is mum to three kids under the age of four. Madi started and built her own small business, ‘That Welding Chick’, where she makes custom objects and art out of recycled and unused metal. “Madi is a hardworking small businesswoman and a great asset to our community,” Ms Car said. “Madi’s dedication is an inspiration to all young women from western Sydney aspiring to pursue their dreams. “It’s an absolute pleasure to acknowledge a proud westie who is doing our community proud.”
Local JP recognised as Mulgoa Woman of the Year
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lenmore Park resident, Marie Haining has been announced as the 2021 Mulgoa Local Women of the Year. Member for Mulgoa, Tanya Davies, joined Marie at the NSW Women of the Year Awards to present her as the Mulgoa Local Women of the Year, along with a star line up of other award winners. Among her many achievements, Marie was recently recognised for her 50 years of service to the community as a Justice of the Peace. Also taking on the challenge of learning a brand new online system as a conveyancer in her late sixties, Marie overcame the many challenges seniors face within a growing technological culture. Tanya Davies MP congratulated Marie on receiving this award and for the example she sets for seniors in the community. “Marie is an incredible example of the
contribution seniors make to our community! She has been active in the workforce for decades and only recently stepped down from full-time work to four days a week at the age of 72,” Mrs Davies said. “I am delighted to have recognised Marie today for her fifty years of service as a JP and for her determination to overcome challenges.” Marie Haining said she was thrilled to be recognised in this year’s awards. “This award has humbled me. I hope this award demonstrates that sometimes small individuals’ efforts can play an important role in the lives of local communities. “My desire is to continue, as long as I am able, to serve my local community as a Justice of the Peace,” said Ms Haining. For more information on the NSW Women of the Year Awards, please visit www.women.nsw. gov.au/news-and-events/women-of-the-year
local news
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arlier this month the community came together to raise funds for the Penrith PCYC. A Charity Bowls day was held at Penrith Bowling and Recreation Club. In the sunshine, over 80 local business people came together for a great cause. Those represented included local Clubs, CBD Corp, PRD, Wideline, Adams and Partners, CFI and many more.
MC Col Bentley interviewed some League Legends including Terry Lamb, Peter Kelly, Luke Priddis and Al Wilson. They all generously gave their time and kept the crowd entertained. A wonderful lunch was served by Woods and Greens. Penrith’s go-to Auctioneer, Troy Kennedy conducted an auction and had those in attendance
digging deep for the PCYC. The day was a great success, with over $13,000 raised from the event. Penrith Bowling and Recreation Club’s General Manager, Julie Smith praised all of those involved. “The day was a great success due to the spirit of our local community, with a wonderful outcome achieved for a very worthwhile cause,” she said.
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Bowling for a cause: Raising funds for pcyc
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local news
Residents asked to help shape Penrith
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enrith City Council is developing its Community Strategic Plan (CSP) and is inviting the community to help shape this important strategic document by completing a short online survey. The survey, hosted on Council’s Facebook page and Your Say Penrith website, covers five key topics which the community highlighted as important areas to focus on in earlier consultations. The topics include managing growth, assets, leadership, community and the environment. Hundreds of residents have already contributed towards the development of the CSP through pop up information booths, surveys and online workshops held last year. This final round of consultation aims to reach a large number of residents and particularly encourage young people to participate. Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown OAM said the answers gathered over the next five weeks through the survey will help confirm the community’s social, economic and environmental priorities and assist in shaping the CSP.
“We know our residents have strong ideas about how we can create a positive, productive, sustainable and liveable City. I would like to encourage residents to share these with us over the next five weeks
so that in partnership we can help shape a bright future for Penrith,” Cr McKeown said. This round of community engagement for the CSP will run from 8 March to 12 April 2021. Complete
the survey to go in the draw to win $50 voucher to spend in Penrith. Terms and conditions (T&Cs) apply. For more details, to complete the survey and to view the T&Cs visit: yoursaypenrith.com.au/mycity
Post suicide support and aftercare program available
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n innovative trial will give children and young people access to community-based, non-clinical support following an attempted suicide, thanks to a $3.8 million investment from the NSW Government. Minister for Mental Health Bronnie Taylor said the service will be designed by young people with lived experience of suicide alongside families and carers, youth mental health and suicide prevention experts. “Growing evidence tells us that following up and increasing community support for people after a suicide attempt can reduce the likelihood of a further attempt,” Mrs Taylor said. “We know that young people are often reluctant to reach out for help and don’t always engage well with clinical services – what works well for adults often doesn’t work well for young people. “The innovative service will involve rapid followup, continuity of care and establishing a genuine, compassionate connection with the young person using the service.” “It will be designed for young people by young people and will not only change lives, it will save them.” The Youth Suicide Crisis and Aftercare service pilot sites will begin operating in April at Blacktown in Western Sydney and Coffs Harbour on the midnorth Coast. Mrs Taylor said that the locations were identified as experiencing especially high presentations to Emergency Departments of young people in crisis or who have self-harmed. “The worst thing you can do in health is to tell regional areas that they are expected to deliver a service that was designed for a metropolitan area. The NSW Government is committed to building a safer, stronger regional NSW, so it is vital to listen to the voices of young people from areas outside of urban centres as well,” Mrs Taylor said. Jack Heskett is a 23-year-old living in Kogarah, South Sydney, who has previously attempted suicide
and is a member of the NSW Health reference group that shaped the scope of the trial. “Those first few months out of hospital can be overwhelming and lonely. This type of care could make a real difference to young people feeling disconnected or a burden on others after they leave hospital,” Mr Heskett said. Referrals to the Youth Suicide Crisis and Aftercare trial are expected from a range of health services, including emergency departments, mental health services and general practitioners. Youth Aftercare has been funded through the Commonwealth Health Innovation Fund. It is in
addition to the extensive range of new initiatives under the NSW Government’s Towards Zero Suicides Premier’s Priority, which includes $87 million in additional funding over three years to change the way that suicide prevention is delivered in this State. If you, or someone you know, is thinking about suicide or experiencing a personal crisis or distress, please seek help immediately by calling 000 or one of these services: • Lifeline 13 11 14 • Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467 • NSW Mental Health Line 1800 011 511
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ederal Member for Lindsay Melissa McIntosh is encouraging primary schools, high schools and local RSLs to tell the stories of our current and former servicemen and women to commemorate this year’s Anzac Day. Ms McIntosh said a number of local stories would be showcased in the lead up to, and on, Anzac Day on social media, a community newsletter and in Parliament. “Telling the stories of those who have served, and continue to serve our country, ensures we keep the Anzac Spirit alive,” said Ms McIntosh. “Our community can be a part of commemorating Anzac Day by submitting the story of past or current servicemen and women. “It could be someone in your family lineage, an alumni of your school, a member of our community, or someone whose story you feel deserves to be told. Submissions can be made to melissa. mcintosh.mp@aph.gov.au including a photograph and a maximum one-page biography written by the applicant, by Tuesday, 30 March. “I’m inspired by the stories that our community shared with me last year, and encourage local students to be a part of our commemoration this Anzac Day.”
Ms McIntosh said educational resources and creative material to commemorate Anzac Day, made available through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, will be accessible for local school and community groups. “Learning about our history is
a significant part of how we can understand the events that have shaped our country, and the sacrifices of more than 102,000 Australians who have given their lives in service of our nation. “I encourage our local schools
and community groups to use these resources to teach our future leaders about the service and sacrifice of Australian service personnel.” All resources are free and available to download on the Anzac Portal at www.anzacportal.dva.gov.au.
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Melissa McIntosh: Keep the ANZAC spirit alive
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local news
Beyond Blue encourages people to seek reliable information about Australia’s COVID-19 vaccination program
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eyond Blue welcomes the commencement of Australia’s COVID-19 vaccination program. The vaccination of the Australian community, starting with those with the greatest health risk, will help contain the disease and advance our social and economic recovery. Beyond Blue understands the prospect of receiving a vaccine may bring feelings of anxiety. Some people may wonder whether the vaccines are safe and effective, about when they will be vaccinated and whether there will be enough for everyone. Facts from trusted sources can help manage any doubts, worries or fears. Beyond Blue encourages people to seek their information about the vaccines and the roll out program from credible sources such as: • The Australian Department of Health’s COVID-19 vaccines web page • The National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance • The Therapeutic Goods Administration • Your GP. It may also help to remember that public health authorities around the world are carefully monitoring how people are responding to the range of vaccines that are already in use, and that Australia has benefited from these and many other scientific insights. Feelings of anxiety are normal in times of uncertainty. However, if your worries are persistent, intense or interfering with your daily life, you may benefit from speaking with Beyond Blue, your GP
or a mental health professional. The Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service is available 24/7 at coronavirus.beyondblue. org.au. Its dedicated phone line, staffed by mental health professionals briefed on the pandemic
response, is available to everyone on 1800 512 348. The Beyond Blue Support Service is available via phone 24/7 on 1300 22 4636 or via beyondblue.org. au/get-support for online chat (3PM – 12AM AEST or email responses within 24 hours).
Nepean hospital vaccination hub opens to continue vaccine rollout
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epean Blue Mountains Local Health District is playing its part in the fight against COVID-19, opening the doors today to its very own Vaccination Hub. Health care workers from across the District started to receive some of the first supply of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine as part of the
vaccination rollout. Among the first staff to be vaccinated at the Hub, located near Nepean Hospital, was Aboriginal staff member, Sharon Williams. “I want to show to my family, my mob and my local community that getting vaccinated is safe,” says Ms Williams.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are considered one of the more at-risk groups when it comes to COVID-19. “I’ll be encouraging everyone I know to get vaccinated. It’s a great way to keep our community protected,” says Ms Williams. For Junior Medical Officer, Dr Joe Jabbour who works with some of the most vulnerable patients at Nepean Hospital the decision to get vaccinated was easy. “I consider this another way of caring for my patients. It’s rewarding to know that I’ve done what I can to help protect them from the virus,” says Dr Jabbour. Also rolling up their sleeves to receive the vaccination was Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District Chief Executive, Kay Hyman who says the opening is a welcome milestone in our COVID-19 response. “I want to extend my sincere thanks and gratitude to all our staff who have, for over a year now, gone above and beyond in delivering care in trying circumstances,” says Mrs Hyman. “We have all lived under a cloud of uncertainty for so long but what is now certain is this vaccination is the community’s best way to return to normal and help protect people from getting seriously ill.” NSW is working closely with the Australian Government to implement a safe and effective COVID-19 vaccination program. For more information about COVID-19 vaccination in NSW, visit the NSW Health website.
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he Morrison Government is ramping up its campaign against misinformation on the COVID-19 vaccines, as the vaccination program moves into Phase 1B. Australians can get all their questions answered on the health website to find out what they want – and need – to know about the COVID-19 vaccines. The new material on the website, called Is it true? – www.health.gov.au/ covid19-vaccines – will help answer questions people may have about the vaccine, and respond to vaccine misinformation they may have heard. This new function will provide trusted, credible information on COVID-19 vaccines for everyone in Australia. It will sort the fact from the fiction. The information on the website will be clear, accurate and timely. Liberal Senator for Western Sydney, Senator the Hon Marise Payne, said the new material will help reassure Australians about the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine and answer commonly asked questions and misinformation relating to the COVID-19 vaccination program. “The vaccines are the next, crucial step on the road out of this pandemic, and it’s the one step that we can all take to protect ourselves, our families, our communities from severe illness,” Senator Payne said. “It’s essential that people get their information on the vaccines from credible sources – and that should be on official government websites. “With new vaccine developments every day, it’s very normal for people to have questions and possibly feel hesitant about getting the vaccine. That doesn’t make them anti-vaccination. “The new section on the website will address the most common questions being asked by people and will be updated regularly.” The Government is running an extensive $31 million education campaign through the rollout, providing people with information
about the approval process for the vaccines, details on what phases the rollout is at and who is now eligible to be vaccinated. Prime Minister Scott Morrison has also announced a further $1.1 billion investment to extend our successful national COVID-19 health response and suppression strategy until 31 December 2021. This $1.1 billion is in addition to more than $22 billion spent in these areas to date, including more than $6 billion to support the COVID-19 vaccine roll out. This investment will extend: • The partnership with the states and territories to manage COVID-19, by sharing 50 percent of the cost of testing and treating people with COVID-19 through our public hospitals, and of public health measures to prevent the spread. To date the Commonwealth has provided an additional $5 billion to support the states and territories, including $1 billion in additional public hospital funding • Continue telehealth services and care until 30 June 2021. So far more than 51 million telehealth services have been delivered to 13 million patients and almost $2.6 billion in benefits paid. More than 82,000 providers have used telehealth
services nationwide. The Government will continue to review the ongoing role of COVID telehealth to support the pandemic in the short term, while we plan the permanent post-pandemic telehealth arrangements with peak doctor groups. • Support for rapid pathology testing and tracing building on the more than 14.5 million COVID-19 tests conducted to date • GP-led Respiratory Clinics, which have delivered more than 1 million consultations and 934,600 COVID-19 tests • Culturally safe testing, treatment and evacuation preparedness in the most remote and isolated parts of the country which has so far provided more than 15,500 point of care tests
• Electronic prescription services with 3.8 million electronic prescriptions and repeats to patients issued and almost 1.7 million dispensed to date • Delivery of Home Medicine Services across the country with more than 2.1 million services delivered already • The Continued Dispensing Emergency Measure where around 289,000 people have had at least one supply of medicine so far • The Beyond Blue Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service to meet ongoing demand for services as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and provide continued support while COVID-19 restrictions remain and the COVID-19 vaccine program is implemented • Aged care workforce surge support capability and financial support for aged care facilities affected by a COVID-19 outbreak to ensure the ongoing safety of senior Australians. Senator Payne said Western Sydney resident Jane Malysiak has now received the second COVID-19 vaccine [Sunday, 14 March 2021] alongside the Prime Minister. “Jane was the first person in Australia to receive the vaccine,” Senator Payne said. “She’s in good health and reports no after effects having first been vaccinated three weeks ago. “When it’s your time, please roll up your sleeve and get the vaccine - it’s safe, effective and free.”
Nepean News 19 March 2021 Issue 299
Countering the misinformation on covid-19 vaccines
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Nepean News 19 March 2021 Issue 299
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local news
Women of the West Awards honour community advocates
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estern Sydney University is pleased to announce the winners of the 2021 Women of the West Awards. Three inspirational women were recognised for their exceptional advocacy and community work at a special event held in partnership with the Coleman Greig Women in Business Forum. Julie Hughes was named Woman of the West (Business) while Jane Stratton was awarded Woman of the West (Community). Natalie Wadwell was named Young Woman of the West. In addition to the winners, several women received a Highly Commended award. Professor Deborah Sweeney, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice-President, Research, Enterprise and International, offered her congratulations to the winners and the nominees. “This year’s Awards recognised a strong and dedicated group of women, who through their advocacy and leadership, are contributing to the communities of Greater Western Sydney,” said Professor Sweeney. “Western Sydney University is proud to honour these women today. Their dedication and efforts are an inspiration to all of us.” Woman of the West (Business), Julie Hughes, is a Founding Director of the Michael Hughes Foundation,
Photo: Sally Tsoutas Woman of the West (Business), Julie Hughes; Young Women of the West Highly Commended, Sophie Wills; Woman of the West (Community) Highly Commended, Kylie Pussell; Young Woman of the West, Natalie Wadwell; Woman of the West (Business) Highly Commended, Gina Field; and Woman of the West (Community), Jane Stratton.
a registered social enterprise focused on cardiac arrest. Her journey started after she was the first responder to her husband Michael who passed away in 2013. Julie was recognised for her leadership, advocacy and commitment to improving the community response to cardiac arrest across NSW. In addition, Gina Field, who is the Founder and Managing Director of Nepean Regional Security, received a Highly Commended in the Woman of the West (Business) category for her work to increase female participation in underrepresented industries, including security. Jane Stratton, who is Woman of the West (Community), is the CEO and founder of the Think+DO Tank
www.westcare.org.au
Foundation. Jane also established LOST IN BOOKS, a multilingual kid’s bookshop and creative community hub in Fairfield. With an accomplished background in law, human rights and social policy, Jane was recognised for her social enterprise efforts, that follow her considerable work for the Public Interest Advocacy Centre, the Australian Human Rights Commission, and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. Kylie Pussell was also recognised with a Highly Commended in the Woman of the West (Community) category for her not-for-profit and community roles, including her work as a passionate advocate for premature and sick children as CEO
and Co-Founder of the Miracle Babies Foundation. Young Woman of the West Natalie Wadwell is a Community Engagement Officer in local government. She has a background in the arts and social entrepreneurship, and has participated in the International Visitors Leadership Program with the US Consulate. Natalie was recognised for her creative and dedicated approach to meaningful community engagement. Sophie Wills, a paramedic with NSW Ambulance and a Western Sydney University graduate, was acknowledged with a Highly Commended in the Young Woman of the West category for her work as founder of the not-for-profit organisation, the Community Defib Project. Coleman Greig Lawyer’s Women in Business Ambassador and Principal, Caroline Hutchinson, acknowledged the women’s achievements. “It was an honour to be able to recognise the work that Western Sydney University is doing in the community through the Women of the West Awards. The winner’s speeches were inspiring to hear and on behalf of all the staff at Coleman Greig we congratulate them,” said Ms Hutchinson.
www.nepeanbelle.com.au
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ens of thousands of new job opportunities will be created for apprentices and trainees across Australia with the expansion of the targeted wage subsidy program as part of the Morrison Government’s National Economic Recovery Plan. The Boosting Apprenticeship Commencements wage subsidy program is fully subscribed, helping to create 100,000 apprenticeships in less than five months. The Program will now become demand driven and expanded for a full 12 months for new apprentices and trainees signed up prior to 30 September 2021. It is estimated that this demand driven expansion will generate around 70,000 new apprentice and trainee places, with the Government investing around $1.2 billion. Minister for Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business Michaelia Cash said training and skills were at the core of the Government’s response to the economic challenges faced by the COVID-19 recession. “Creating jobs, generating economic opportunities and boosting the skills of workers right across Australia are at the heart of our National Economic Recovery Plan, as we build back from the COVID-19 recession,” the Prime Minister said.
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“With 100,000 new apprenticeship positions already snapped up, it highlights the confidence businesses have in the future of the Australia economy.” “Growing our skills pipeline is an incredibly important part of helping our economic recovery,” Minister Cash said. Federal Member for Lindsay
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Media
on page 9 our cover story River Walk. Read Andrew Paech. g to do the Great Ross Fowler and Westcare’s has blokes flockin with Penrith Mayor Walk and Talk Penrith Men’s created the group five men who Pictured: The
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Melissa McIntosh said that the BAC has already supported over 750 apprentices and trainees in Lindsay. “Backing apprentices means giving people in our community the skills they need to take on the jobs of the future,” said Ms McIntosh. “We’re investing in our apprentices and trainees so we can create and sustain more local jobs right here
in Western Sydney, and give our Australian manufacturers the best opportunities to grow and expand. “The Boosting Apprentices Commencement program has to date assisted almost 40,000 businesses to take on a new Australian apprentice or trainee. “By expanding this wage subsidy for another 12 months, we’ll be helping businesses to create even more jobs, further supporting our National Economic Recovery Plan for Australia.” The Boosting Apprenticeship Commencements was one of the COVID-19 skills measures announced as part of the $4 billion in apprentice wage subsidies. The Morrison Government is providing record levels of support to the vocational education and training sector in 2020-21, which is not only helping rebuild our economy but preparing for the future. This includes the $1 billion JobTrainer Fund, which is supporting more than 300,000 additional free or low-fee training places for job seekers and young people. Further information on the support available to eligible businesses and employees is available at www.dese. gov.au/boosting-apprenticeshipcommencements
Nepean News 19 March 2021 Issue 299
Thousands of new apprentice and trainee jobs
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local news
You can now roll the dice of Penrith Monopoly
A
fter much anticipation, the official PENRITH MONOPOLY game was launched on March 13. Locals and tourists alike can now play the world’s most popular board game in a way that immortalises their beloved Penrith and its landmarks. Over several months, thousands of people and businesses having had their say, and after much deliberation, the locally themed squares selected that will make the entire game a truly Penrith experience are: • Brown – Nepean River and Sydney International Regatta Centre • Light Blue – Nepean Belle, Aqua Golf and Penrith Whitewater Stadium • Pink – Luddenham Country Markets, Club Paceway and Throw Axe • Orange – Nepean Hospital, Museum of Fire and The Joan Sutherland Centre • Red – High Street, Riley Street and Westfields • Yellow – The Red Cow, O’Donoghues and East Bank Nepean River • Green – Xavier College, Emu Hall and Mr Watkins • Dark Blue – Panthers Leagues Club and Panthers Stadium After such a difficult few years with bushfires and a global pandemic is it about time we had a good news story that allows people to
celebrate the area but also, support the businesses they love. The new MONOPOLY: Penrith Edition is available now at the following partners (RRP $69.95): ● Luddenham Country Markets ● Throw Axe ● Nepean Hospital ● Museum of Fire ● Westfields ● The Red Cow ● O’donoghues ● PRD Real Estate ● Xavier College ● Emu Hall ● Mr Watkins ● Panthers Leagues Club ● Club Paceway Dale Hackett, Monopoly Manager, Winning Moves – manufacturers of the official Penrith version of MONOPOLY under license from Hasbro – says, “I’m thrilled that this edition celebrates such a patriotic area of the great Sydney area. The Penrith community has fully embraced bringing this game to life, and now it’s available for the public to purchase and roll the dice!” Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown OAM said “It’s fantastic to see Penrith has its own edition of Monopoly, putting it in company with some of the biggest cities in the world. Penrith has so much to offer and that’s reflected in the assortment of businesses and landmarks in the game. It’s a testament to our city’s
strong community pride that so many local businesses have been eager to get involved.” The MONOPOLY game first hit the shelves in 1935 – since then it has been played by more than 1 billion people. Today, it is played in 114 countries and enjoyed in over 47 different languages. MONOPOLY © 1935, Hasbro. All Rights Reserved.
2021
Residents urged to plan for their animals
W
ith storm season still upon us, residents of the Hawkesbury-Nepean Valley are being urged by NSW State Emergency Service (NSW SES) to not only plan for themselves but their animals as well. NSW SES Chief Superintendent Greg Swindells pointed animal owners towards the numerous resources available via www.getreadyanimals.nsw. gov.au to make a plan now. “In the face of a potential flood, one of the first things we encourage owners to do is get their animals to higher ground and away from floodprone areas,” Mr Swindells said. “This is especially the case for those in the Hawkesbury-Nepean Valley. The region is very wet, and with the potential for further rainfall, there is a higher likelihood of flooding. “Given this higher chance of flooding, we need all animal owners within the region to have a plan in place,” he said. Mr Swindells said NSW SES has specially trained volunteers in large animal rescue. “Recently in the Hawkesbury-Nepean Valley, we have been called to assist with cows stuck in mud, sheep trapped by rivers, and even horses that have fallen into septic tanks,” Mr Swindells said. “While we will always respond when and where we can, it is important that the owners of large animals do their best to keep them safe. “This is especially the case with septic tanks. Horses are very heavy animals and it doesn’t take a lot for them to fall in, but it takes a lot to get them out safely. “If you have a horse and they can walk across a
Chief Superintendent Greg Swindells with members of Hawkesbury Unit - David King, Kevin Jones, Blair Wallace, and Lew McDonnell.
septic tank, please put measures in place to protect them. This can go a long way to avoiding a very stressful situation for the animal and yourself,” he said. In the event you need assistance for your animals, please call Triple Zero (000) and the nearest
emergency services agency will respond. For more information on how to best plan for your animals, visit www.getreadyanimals.nsw.gov. au and for more information about preparing for floods in the Hawkesbury-Nepean Valley, visit ses. nsw.gov.au.
local news “Being a woman presents you with many challenges but we shouldn’t be afraid to rise to those challenges.” – Dr Mithila Zaheen
j
unior doctor Mithila Zaheen is certainly not afraid of a challenge and her hard work has been recognised with an International Women’s Day honour. Mithila was named a ‘Blacktown City Woman of the Year’ finalist at the council’s annual International Women’s Day breakfast recently, saying she was “humbled and honoured” to be recognised alongside other women who have made significant contributions to the local community. Despite her challenging work and study load, Mithila makes time for many volunteer commitments
Dr Fardin Ferdous and Dr Mithila Zaheen are siblings and fellow junior doctors at Blacktown Hospital, pictured here on night shift together.
Blacktown Hospital junior doctor Dr Mithila Zaheen
including a tutoring service for Sudanese refugees, a homework club with Baabayn Aboriginal Corporation in Mount Druitt, and health education for refugee and migrant communities with The Water Well Project. “I make it a priority to give back. It helps me feel fulfilled when I make a difference for the wider community,” Mithila said. “I grew up in western Sydney and my parents are migrants from Bangladesh so I’m passionate about helping underserved populations, especially indigenous and migrant communities. “I’m especially passionate about health literacy. It’s one thing to help people in hospital but it’s even more fulfilling when you can educate people to advocate for themselves and their health. Especially with COVID-19, there’s so much fear and misinformation that I feel a responsibility to help educate the community.”
On top of her work, study and volunteer commitments, Mithila is also a conjoint associate lecturer at the Western Sydney University School of Medicine and is studying a postgraduate Master of Medicine in clinical epidemiology at the University of Sydney. She’s just started her basic physician training at Blacktown Hospital, and is considering specialising in cardiology or respiratory disease down the track – while staying focused on helping western Sydney. It’s no surprise Mithila comes from a medical background. Her parents are both doctors, her older brother, Dr Fardin Ferdous, is a fellow junior doctor at Blacktown Hospital, and her younger sister is also studying medicine. “My brother and I did our whole internship together, which was really nice. It’s great to have support and someone to debrief with,” Mithila said.
Volunteers dedicated to empowering women
T
o raise funds to support the incredible work that they do, Zonta Club of Nepean Valley will be running a pre-loved clothing sale on Sunday March 28. The sale will include women’s and girl’s clothing, shoes, bags, scarves/wraps, jewellery and some children’s clothing. It will be held at the School of Arts Hall (U3A Hall) at 7 Castlereagh Street, Penrith between the hours of 1pm and 4pm. Parking is available on the upper levels of the RSL club car park. Zonta is a local and international service organisation run for the benefit of women. The membership of the club is made up of women from a diverse range of ages, experiences, professions and backgrounds. All members are committed to improving the status of women at a local and international level through service and advocacy. This is achieved through local fundraising, service and friendship. Do you have a heart for impacting the lives of women around the globe? Are you aware that the better off women are, the
Mithila at the Blacktown City Council International Women’s Day breakfast
“It was an unexpected and unpredictable year due to COVID-19 but I loved it overall. It’s a great culture at Blacktown Hospital; people are so friendly and supportive, and I love the patients. They’re so friendly and down to earth. I feel like I can relate to everyone here. “My parents’ first jobs in Australia were at Westmead Hospital so it feels like it’s come full circle in western Sydney.”
Zonta Club of Nepean Valley Women Alive 2021!
Pampered Possessions Clothing Sale Where: U3A Hall, Castlereagh Street, Penrith WheN: Sunday 28th March, 1-4pm cost: Free
better off their children and families are, and in turn, the better the communities they live in are? Zonta offers you the opportunity to belong to a vibrant service organisation, develop leadership skills, cultivate friendships and give back to your community. Email districtsecretary@ zontadistrict24.org to enquire about joining.
Cost of clothing: Dresses $5 Blouses $3 Skirts $4 Pants $4 Handbags $4 Jumpers $3 T shirts $2 Scarves $2 Children’s Clothing $2 Jewellery as priced
Bring your friends and your shopping bags A Zonta project to achieve positive outcomes for women in the local community
Nepean News 19 March 2021 Issue 299
Junior doctor and Mount Druitt service volunteer recognised
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Nepean News 19 March 2021 Issue 299
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local news
The sad fate of the Luddenham-based turtle By KeRRIE DAVIES
A
s construction begins on the new Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport, the area that was once a healthy home for turtles is fading away. The dams that were an essential part of their lives are being drained and filled in and so they’re moving from dam site to dam site in search of water. Sadly, movement isn’t something a turtle manages at a very fast pace, so an attempt to get across The Northern Rd or Elizabeth Drive often ends up in them being squashed and killed or severely injured. Turtle Rescues NSW is an Environmental Conservation Organisation founded by Shane Davies and Kane Durrant.
Matt Kean MP Minister for Energy and Environment, Shane Davies and Kane Durrant
It is their mission to ensure the humane treatment of wildlife during the clearing of land by development projects. Shane grew up in Luddenham so he is very familiar with the turtle habitat. “We recently rescued another injured Eastern Long neck turtle from the side of the road on Elizabeth drive, Badgery’s creek outside the new Western Sydney airport site,” Shane said.
“With all of the surrounding rural dams, along with all of the farm dams being de-watered on the new airport site, this will be a more common occurrence over the coming years.” The area is sure to get a lot busier, so how do we curtail the certain fate of these poor slow little critters? “Turtle signs need to be erected around The Northern Rd, Badgerys Creek Rd and Elizabeth Drive to at least make motorists aware of their presence to at least give them half a chance of not being hit,” Shane said. “With all the billions of dollars being spent around on infrastructure, this is a very small cost to try and protect our native freshwater turtles.
“Fingers crossed that this poor fellow will be able to pull through this and eventually recover.” Shane and Kane have rescued numerous turtles with damaged shells from the area and are saddened that the local turtle population will decrease dramatically without human intervention. Shane said he’d like to see them relocated to Nepean River where they won’t need to travel to find water. “The turtles are just just doing what comes naturally to them; looking for water sources,” Shane said. “When breeding season starts, they’ll be looking to lay eggs. But when moving from dam to dam in search of water they risk being killed on the road or being buried alive in the development process.” Local residents have been so upset by the sight of squashed turtles they’ve ended up making their own signs to warn motorists. If you’re driving in the area, please keep an eye out for these poor babies. If it is safe to stop, you could save a turtle’s life by moving it off the road and out of harms way. Alternatively, contact Shane or Kane at Turtle Rescues NSW. You can find them on facebook. Keep an eye on Nepean News facebook this weekend also to take part in a petition to have signs erected and the turtles relocated.
This is the type of warning sign Turtle Rescues would like to see erected
Injured and rescued turtles from around airport site
Upset residents have made their own signs
local news
R
AAF Base Richmond was established on 1 July 1925. It was the second base to be created in Australia following the establishment of the RAAF at Point Cook in Melbourne on 31 March 1921. Local connections to aviation go back to 1912, when Parramatta dentist William Ewart Hart conducted the first flights from Ham Common – the site of the current RAAF Base. In September 1912, his flying days were cut short after he was severely injured in the crash of his home-built monoplane near Freemans Reach. In 1914, a privately-owned flying school was established at Ham Common, and soon passed over to New South Wales Government. This made Richmond the first governmentowned civil aerodrome in Australia. In July 1921, the newly-established Air Force proposed Richmond as the site of its first base in New South Wales, and the site was sold to the Federal Government. Richmond enjoyed rail and road connections to the city; was within convenient flying range of the coast; and was out of range of naval bombardment. On the afternoon of 30 June 1925, Flight Lieutenant Frank Lukis weaved his DH9 biplane through a gap in the clouds to become the first to Richmond. The following day, RAAF Station Richmond was formally established. On its establishment, the RAAF Station consisted of an iron hangar and one small building, but new barracks, messes, and a headquarters building were soon added. In 1928, the hangar housed the Southern Cross for a major servicing after the aircraft’s historic trans-Pacific flight. In the mid-1930s, Richmond experienced considerable growth with the construction of hangars, headquarters buildings, workshops, a theatre (now the gym) and Officers Mess. Most of these buildings remain in use.
Leading Aircraftman Nathan Palmer, centre, and Aircraftwoman Alanna Hennessy both from No. 22 Squadron, assist BGIS employee Michael Gavin instal an Air Force 2021 banner. Photo: Corporal Dan Pinhorn
New squadrons were also raised at Richmond in the 1930s. On the outbreak of war in September 1939, aircraft launched from Richmond for maritime surveillance patrols along Australia’s East Coast – a long and laborious task that would continue for the next six years. A ‘Tin City’ was constructed for No. 2 Recruit Depot to train personnel joining the Air Force; and from 1943, the Paratroop Training Unit dropped Australian Army paratroopers. No. 2 Aircraft Depot reconstructed aircraft that had been shipped to Australia from the United States and Great Britain, and serviced other aircraft in Australia. Flying squadrons also flew meteorological survey flights, transport missions, and training with Army formations. Richmond was also a springboard for many squadrons to consolidate their skills before they deployed. The skies in the Hawkesbury saw twinengine Hudsons, Beauforts, Bostons and Beaufighters (all used for various bomber and strike roles in the South Pacific) as well as Spitfires (used in Defence of northern Australia)
No. 54 Squadron Spitfire pilots, Richmond, 1942
throughout the war. At Castlereagh and Pitt Town, dispersal airstrips were constructed to alleviate the pressure from Richmond, and also act as insurance in the event of a surprise aerial attack. In late 1944, RAAF Base Richmond’s runway was surfaced, and extended in the early 1950s to its present day length. Dakota transports arrived in 1949, and in December 1958 the first of 12 C-130A Hercules transport aircraft arrived. The base also served as a home to Neptune maritime patrol aircraft from 1954 to 1967. Expansion of hangars and tarmac continued in the 1950s. In 1964, the DHC-4 Caribou was introduced and immediately deployed to the war in Vietnam. In 1966, No. 37 Squadron was re-established at the base, operating a fleet of 12 C-130E Hercules transport aircraft. In 1979, the first of an eventual six Boeing 707 transport aircraft arrived at Richmond. With the expanded transport fleet came a responsibility for Richmond to support operations over much greater ranges and in remote areas. This mission continues today, and has led personnel from Richmond to be ‘first on the scene’ for warlike, peacekeeping, and disaster relief operations. These missions have
ranged from Cyclone Tracy and the Fall of Saigon in 1974-1975; peacekeeping in Sinai and Kashmir in the late 1970s; and domestic relief during floods and the Airline Pilots Strike in 1989-1990. In 1988, the base hosted the Australian Bicentennial Air Show, with over 200,000 people making it the largest air show in Australian history to that point. In 1999, the deployment of peacekeepers to East Timor saw the beginning of a busy operational tempo at RAAF Base Richmond that continues to this day, with subsequent deployments to Afghanistan (2002) and Iraq (2003) that are still supported today. Against this backdrop have been countless deployments for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations, including the Bali Bombings (2002 and 2005), 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami, and 2005 Pakistan Earthquake. In 2015, the New South Wales Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) began operating its Large Air Tankers and ‘Bird Dog’ observation aircraft from Richmond on a seasonal basis; in 2019, this extended to year-round support. The NSW RFS presence aligns with RAAF operations, with their aircraft often called out at short notice and requiring maximum flexibility in how they carry out their mission. In 2021, RAAF Base Richmond is responsible for managing the Air Force’s wider air mobility fleet, as well as flying operations by No. 37 Squadron and its fleet of 12 C-130J Hercules. The base has a number of units dedicated to training of personnel in air movements roles, as well as No. 3 Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron, and air base support from No. 22 Squadron. All three Defence services also rely on RAAF Base Richmond as a logistics hub within the Sydney region, and the base supports foreign military along with other state and federal government agencies. The RAAF expects to continue its flying operations from RAAF Base Richmond beyond 2030, and the decision to base the NSW RFS fleet at Richmond will help ensure its continued operation.
Three Royal Australian Air Force C-130 Hercules at RAAF Base Richmond
Nepean News 19 March 2021 Issue 299
RAAF Base Richmond joins the celebration
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Nepean News 19 March 2021 Issue 299
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local news
Local artists sought for Living Lanes in Katoomba By KeRRIE DAVIES
L
iving Lanes is a visual arts project that aims to create a series of new contemporary art installations revitalising five laneways in Katoomba’s town centre. An Expression of Interest is now open for Western Sydney artists to submit artwork proposals that engage and inspire visitors and locals alike. Artists are encouraged to consider 3D relief, kinetic, interactive, tactile and sensory experiences. Up to $20,000 is provided to each artist for the total cost of production and installation. Developed in partnership between Blue Mountains City Council and Toolo, the Blue Mountains Tool Library, the project has been funded through the Bushfire Recovery Agency and Austrade. Blue Mountains Mayor Mark Greenhill said Blue Mountains City Council is committed to strengthening the liveability and vibrancy of our towns and villages. “This project offers a fantastic opportunity for visual artists in our region and will attract many visitors to Katoomba,” he said. The Blue Mountains is the state’s inaugural City of the Arts and the Living Lanes project continues this vision. It aspires to highlight for visitors and residents a lively and vibrant township that is representative of the diverse artistic community within Greater Western Sydney. Director of Toolo, Justin Morrissey, invited artists to submit their most ambitious ideas. “Toolo aims to provide high calibre opportunities for artists in our region,” he said. “The laneways of Katoomba are like the arteries of our town, they are quirky and interesting spaces ideal for artistic
interventions.” Submission requirements for artists ● Expressions of Interest can be made through the online portal at https://www.livinglanes.art/
● Artists must include a project description with conceptual visuals and examples. ● Expressions of Interest close 5pm Wednesday, 31 March 2021.
The Rotary Club of Penrith Valley in the Community By Noel Rowsell
O
ver the Christmas p e r i o d when disadvantaged individuals and families were struggling, the Rotary Club of Penrith Valley, in collaboration with the Jordan Springs Shopping Centre and the generous people of Jordan Springs, distributed much-needed supplies to the ‘Penrith Community Kitchen’, ‘Penrith Community Aid’ and the ‘Ross Hutchison Foundation’ for at least 300 people. This was via the Red Donation Cube (donated by WOFTAM Display & Handling) placed in the Shopping Centre. The educational pack is something the Club has repeated this year, with more packs going to children in need through the Police Citizens Youth Club (PCYC), which Penrith Valley Rotary supports in many ways. The Club is in discussions to also place the Red Donation Cube in other Shopping Centres. “The need for people to care and give of their time to help others is always with us,” said Club President Jean Vranich. “During the Covid Crisis it has become more apparent. The members of the Rotary Club are all volunteers
Photos: Supplied by the Rotary Club of Penrith Valley
who want to make a difference. Help us to help others and join us in the effort to make a difference. We meet on Wednesday evenings in the Function Room of the Coffee Club at Tench Reserve and you are most welcome.” For more information on the Rotary Club of Penrith Valley, contact Jean on 0410586437 or Andrew secretary@ penrithvalleyrotary.org.
Rotary District Conference 9675 The District Conference 2021 for District 9675 (covering Greater Sydney to the Illawarra) is currently being held at the SMC Conference and Function Centre in Sydney from
19th-21st March. Keynote speakers are Anna Ludvik (Founder and president of Lucy’s Project), Rtn Nischal Pandey (A Rotary Alumni, Rtn Nischal holds the distinction of being Charter President of his Interact Club, Rotaract Club and now Rotary E-Club of Connect, D-3012), John Brogden AM (A passionate and charismatic speaker in the areas of Leadership, Depression and Mental Health), Dr Nicole Reilly (A Research Fellow at the Australian Health Services Research Institute at the University of Wollongong and Conjoint Senior Lecturer at the School of Psychiatry, UNSW), Garry Browne AM (A highly regarded industry leader, known for his expertise in consumer branding and his successful management
of various cultural change and innovation projects), Associate Professor Elisabeth Murphy (Senior Clinical Advisor, Child and Family Health, NSW Ministry of Health), Greg Mullins AO AFSM (Former Commissioner of Fire & Rescue NSW), Courtney Krahe (District Rotaract Representative 20/22), Dr James Muecke AM (Researcher, teacher, author, musician, photographer, film producer and founder of ‘Sight for All’, Cam Calkoen (Athletic gold medalist, charitable fundraiser, social entrepreneur, inspirational speaker and twice recipient of a Rotary ‘Paul Harris Fellow’. More information on all speakers and the conference can be found on the website Home Page | District 9675 (rotarydistrict9675.org)
local news
T
he NSW Government plans to call Sydney’s new ‘hi-tech’ city at Bringelly ‘Bradfield’, in honour of the engineer who helped shape Sydney. The city centre will be built on the doorstep of the Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport. It will grow into Sydney’s third city, to take its place alongside the other great city centres of Sydney and Parramatta. Bradfield was selected after the community was asked to have a say, with a panel settling on the final decision to honour John Bradfield’s enduring city-shaping impact on Sydney, including his major contribution the Sydney Harbour Bridge. NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said Bradfield will define Australia’s first 22nd Century City, which will be a key driver of economic growth and deliver up to 200,000 jobs across the Western Parkland City. “Bradfield was a renowned engineer who designed and oversaw the construction of both the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney’s original railway network,” Ms Berejiklian said. “The name Bradfield is synonymous with delivering game-changing infrastructure and it sets the right tone for the area we have referred to as the ‘Aerotropolis Core’ until now. “This area will be transformed into a thriving city centre, home to advanced
manufacturing, research, science and education and we want Bradfield to be as iconic as the existing major city centres of Sydney and Parramatta. “What are paddocks now will be a thriving, bustling city centre offering the best job opportunities anywhere in Australia.” Minister for Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said the area to be named Bradfield is more than 100 hectares and sits north of the existing suburb
of Bringelly. It is at the heart of the Western Sydney Aerotropolis and will eventually lend its name to surrounding areas. “The number of suggestions the community put forward to ‘Name the Place’ was overwhelming and we are thrilled with the level of participation and interest this project attracted,” Mr Ayres said. “We thank everyone for having their say and want to assure the community
the remaining suggestions will be considered as names for streets, parks and other landmarks in the new city centre. “I look forward to Bradfield being the first name that people think of when starting a new job, creating a new business, learning a new skill and investing in NSW.” John Bradfield’s Grandson Jim Bradfield has welcomed the announcement. “It is a great honour that my grandfather’s name continues to be associated with major infrastructure developments in and around Sydney,” Mr Bradfield said. “We hope his achievements will inspire generations to come, and help shape the future of our urban landscape.” The name Bradfield was a popular community suggestion in the ‘Name the Place’ process and will now be put to the Geographical Names Board of NSW. The NSW Government has 18 Foundation Partner commitments, including with Suez, Siemens, Hitachi, Sydney Water and Northrup Grumman, and continues to formalise relationships with a number of other partners, including FedEx, Romar Engineering and Quickstep in the creation of the innovative ecosystem at the Aerotropolis.
Nepean News 19 March 2021 Issue 299
New city at Aerotropolis to be named ‘Bradfield’
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Legends of the Nepean Desmond de Silva By Noel Rowsell
D
esmond (Des) Anaclitus Rajiva de Silva was born in 1944 at Matara, Colombo. Desmond and wife Phyllis moved into their new Australian home in Colyton in 1996 and have lived there continuously, whilst Des has toured extensively both in Australia and overseas. Des was educated at St. Mary’s Matara, St. Peter’s College Colombo, St. Aloysius College Galle and finally at St. Thomas’ College, Matara. Born into a family of gifted musicians, Desmond was drawn into the music scene, initially joining the choir of St Aloysius College, Galle. In 1964 Desmond joined the band ‘Fireflies’ which performed at Sundown Dances, Rugby socials and dinner dances, with close friend Dalrene as the female vocalist and with Desmond’s great voice and versatility, the band became one of the most popular bands in those days. Des left the Fireflies in 1968 to join the ‘Spitfires’ and together with the rest
of the group, enjoyed fame and success at the Ceylinco House for many years. Des had a short tenure with the ‘Jetliners’ then, in 1979, he went on to represent Sri Lanka at the 5th Olympiad of Songs in Athens, Greece and also at the Yamaha Festival of Songs in Tokyo, Japan. Des formed ‘Desmond & The Clan’ and toured The Maldives, Nepal, Norway and Denmark for many years. When the band disbanded, Desmond went on to perform solo around the world at Sri Lankan ex-pats events. Desmond was influenced by the music of Wally Bastian and went on to sing and record over 800 #bailas, that went on to be hits and earned him the title of King of Baila - a title he holds to date. During his solo career, Des’ versatility as a performer really shone through as he was able to imitate a wide range of artistes such as Louis Armstrong, Dean Martin, the Bee Gees & Elvis, to name a few. Des has had his fair share of surprises in life but one he will not easily forget was at a cleverly-orchestrated 50th Anniversary launch, put together by his wife Phyllis.
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Desmond de Silva was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Jonnie Russell. If you know a local legend, send us a nomination at nepeannews@aol.com
Photos: Supplied by Phyllis Van Houten
Over 150 handpicked friends and family, including many from overseas and interstate, gave Des a rousing reception in an unusual launch of his 50th Anniversary celebrations named “The Journey”. The reception was run along the lines of once popular Television program ‘This is Your Life’ and was a fitting tribute to one of Sri Lanka’s most acclaimed singers, who has wowed his fans for decades. Among the many guests were both current and former musicians from Desmond’s past,with the High Commissioner for Sri Lanka in Australia his Excellency, Thisara Samarasinghe among the distinguished guests. Sri Lankan High Commissioner His Excellency Thisara Samarasinghe underlined Desmond’s contribution to music in Sri Lanka, his influence on several generations through his rare talent as an entertainer and reminded everyone that all those who wished him well spoke of him as Sri Lanka’s best. He also presented Des with an Award, in celebration of his 50th Anniversary. Desmond in his thanks said he was “Blown Away” by the surprise and could not believe that all this had been organised without his knowledge right under his nose! Des captured the spirit of the evening, saying “This has been an overwhelming and absolutely the best experience I have ever had and I am humbled and grateful that it was made possible.”
A free Open air concert in his home town Matara was attended by nearly 30,000 fans to launch the 50th Anniversary celebrations. As the celebrations continued at venues around the world, Des also completed his English CD titled “Sentimental Me” - featuring songs that were carefully selected and conveyed the way he felt at this stage in his life. Des was also inspired and persuaded to go back into the Studio to record his first Christmas CD titled “An Old Fashioned Christmas” and has now recorded his Motown favourites – a genre he loves and performed exceptionally well in the days of the Spitfires and Desmond & the Clan. Des has proven his sustainability in the very competitive music scene over his lifetime and has no intention of retiring any time soon, still keeping up
a demanding schedule which sees him perform around the globe at many Sri Lankan expatriates’ events. The Spitfires reunited in 2015 in a ‘Time is Tight’ tour of Australia. It was an emotional time for the members of the band and Des recalls the 3 weeks fondly, as most of the band members were accommodated in his home. Another recent highlight was the ‘Together Again 2018’ tour of Australia by Desmond & The Clan. Desmond celebrated a significant birthday in 2019 with a concert at the BMICH in Colombo, produced by Damayantha Kuruppu. Desmond was keen to use the occasion to lift the spirits of all Sri Lankans, after the Easter Sunday Massacre. This event was special to Desmond as he had the chance to once again perform with Ishan Bahar - the
person who inspired him to become a singer. “It has also been a time for reflection. I have had the time to think of the huge body of work I have been fortunate to own,” Desmond said “I have had amazingly talented lyric writers who have collaborated with musicians who gave me material to work with and I have been fortunate to amass over 850 Sinhala pop and baila songs. ‘The great Wally Bastian gave me permission to sing his songs. I felt very humbled.” “I’ve also been inspired by my step-children Shane and Aaron and their partners, who have encouraged and pushed me into using this time to reinvent myself, to embrace technology and keep in touch with fans through Zoom. I have had a few performances through Zoom and it certainly has been an interesting experience. Together with my wife Phyllis, my step sons have encouraged and supported me to organise a series of virtual concerts around the world and to also lay down tracks for 3 new CDs. So in this enforced time of restrictions I am happy that I am busily engaged in interesting projects that keep me occupied and in touch with my music and my fans’. Desmond’s calendar for 2020 was full with gigs booked in Australia and overseas, which were all put on hold due to the Covid-19 restrictions. Des is also very supportive of organisations that are focused in making a difference, supporting the Police Citizens Boys Club, Surf Life Saving and Soldier On Organisations in NSW and is always happy to support the Sri Lanka Kidney Foundation, the Lions Club and fund-raising efforts to provide medical supplies and ongoing support for cancer patients. Baila (also known as bayila; from the Portugese verb bailar, meaning to dance) is a form of music popular in Sri Lanka and among Goan Catholics.
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Nepean News 19 March 2021 Issue 299
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local news
Don’t be blindsided this World Glaucoma Week
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nown as the “silent thief of sight”, glaucoma is the leading cause of avoidable blindness world-wide with western Sydney residents being warned not to be left in the dark. Glaucoma is a common eye condition that affects the optic nerve, and if left untreated can cause irreversible blindness. Westmead Hospital ophthalmologist Dr Rajeev Chalasani said the lack of symptoms in the early stages of the condition meant glaucoma could often go undiagnosed for many years. “This condition affects over 300,000 Australians, yet it is estimated that 50 per cent of those living with glaucoma are undiagnosed,” Dr Chalasani said. “It starts by affecting your peripheral vison before overtaking the rest of your eye. There is no pain or discomfort associated with this which is often why it goes undetected.” “People can walk around and not realise they have it until it’s too late.” One of the big challenges in eye care, particularly in western Sydney, is the capacity for people that need monitoring for eye conditions like glaucoma, but not necessarily needing treatment. Dr Chalasani said your local optometrist should be your first point of call for screening and diagnosis. “Community eye care in western Sydney is readily available for all community members,” “The C-EYE-C Clinic, established by the Westmead Eye Clinic, partners with local optometrists to provide screening, referrals and follow-up reviews for patients.” “If treatment is required, they will be referred directly to the Westmead Eye Clinic.” In 2020, The Westmead Hospital Eye Clinic saw and treated over 3000 glaucoma patients, with up to 970 glaucoma patients being screened and identified through the Community Eye Centre. A common misconception has grown in recent years is that standard glasses will alleviate symptoms of glaucoma. Experts contest this is not
the case. “I like to think of it like a camera. You can have the best lens in the world, but if the film isn’t good – your picture will be blurry.” Dr Chalasani said. “Glaucoma treatment works to lower the pressure inside the eye. This can be done through things like prescription eye-drops, oral medications, laser treatment of surgery. Glasses are used to help the light reflect on the retina.” Dr Chalasani hopes World Glaucoma Week (March 7-13) along with World Glaucoma Day on March 12 will help people realise the importance of regular eye check-ups. “Regular eye check-ups and early detection can
be the difference in losing vison early on in life, or preserving it.” “Glaucoma gets more common as you age, but you can still be affected by this condition in your early 30s and 40s.” “Leaving glaucoma untreated can lead to irreversible blindness. A regular eye test at your local optometrist or ophthalmologist could make the world of difference.” If you have a family history, of Asian or African descent or are over 50, you are more likely than other people to develop glaucoma. For more information on active treatment for Glaucoma, visit the Westmead Hospital Eye Clinic website.
Sleep is not for the weak – 50 percent of teens falling short of their full 8 hours
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ave you ever thought that behaviour we casually dismiss as “teenage angst” — the moodiness, constant battles, sleeping all day, the reckless, impulsive or careless behaviour — is not a normal part of being a teen? New studies have revealed that approximately 50 per cent of Australians aged 16-17 are not getting enough sleep to meet national sleep guidelines, impacting on their mental, physical and emotional health. Whilst quality sleep at any age is important, the teenage years are a formative period meaning the brain and body experience significant development whilst they transition to adulthood. National Sleep Awareness Week runs from 14 – 21 March 2021 with the aim of helping you and your family members get a better night’s sleep. So how much sleep should kids and teenagers be getting? While sleep needs are unique to each person, the Australian National Guidelines recommend: Children under 3 months- 14 – 17
hours of good quality sleep Toddlers- 11 – 14 hours Children aged 6 to 13 years- 9 – 11 hours Teenagers- 8 – 10 hours. WSLHD Population health deputy director Christine Newman, says that although sleep patterns may vary, it is crucial for children and adolescents to gain the adequate amount of sleep
each night. “Not getting enough sleep or not sleeping well can affect how children learn and may lead to mood swings and behavioural problems,” Ms Newman said. “There is also strong evidence between not getting enough sleep and childhood overweight and obesity. “Nurturing quality sleep habits for
children from an early age is vital for a child’s physical health, brain function, emotional wellbeing, safety and ability to function day to day.” Ms Newman said parents and carers play an important role to help their children create positive, regular sleep habits early on and offered these tips to help nurture teens sleep: • Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day • Avoid screen time at least an hour before bed • Eat a healthy diet • Avoid stimulants such as caffeine, chocolate and energy drinks • Help your child wind down by reading a book or listening to soft music • Make sure the bedroom is suitable for sleep by having it dark and quiet Dr Chris Seton, a Paediatric and Adolescent sleep specialist from The Children’s Hospital at Westmead also shares tips to help children and teenagers set up healthy sleep habits in a series of helpful videos. For any help with adult sleep issues, contact the Westmead Hospital Sleep Clinic on (02) 8890 6797
local COLUMNIST
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any common household items such as food, plants and medicines are fatally toxic to our pets. It is important to familiarise yourself with the most commonly found poisons so that they are not kept within reach of your pet. Rodent poisons and insecticides: These are one of the most common causes of pet poisonings. Poisons such as rat and snail bait should be used with extreme caution. They are designed to entice animals to eat them and attempts to hide them in hard to reach places are often unsuccessful. If you must use rodenticides or insecticides, keep them safely locked up and only use them in areas of your property that are inaccessible to your dog or cat. Medications: Many prescription and over the counter medications are toxic to animals. Paracetamol is a commonly found pain medication that is particularly poisonous to cats, even in tiny amounts. Never medicate your pet without the advice of your veterinarian and make sure that all medications are kept in sealed
containers out of the reach of your pets. Food: Some foods are toxic to your pets and should never be fed to them. These include chocolate, onions and garlic (including products containing onion or garlic powder, macadamia nuts, raisins, grapes and products containing caffeine amongst others Feeding fat trimmings may cause your pet to develop pancreatitis and foods such as raw fish, liver and sugary foods can lead to metabolic diseases
when fed in excess. Avocado is toxic to many animals including birds, dogs, mice, rabbits, horses and livestock. Common plants and mulch: Some common house and garden plants are deadly to animals if ingested. These include Lily species, Brunfelsia species (Yesterday-today-andtomorrow) and cycad seeds. Antifreeze: Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol which tastes sweet, is attractive to animals and deadly if consumed in small amounts.
Be conscious of its potential as a poison regardless. Xylitol – sugar substitute: This low-carbohydrate sugar substitute is used as a sweetener in products such as chewing gum, some toothpastes and baked goods. While safe for human consumption, it is metabolised differently by dogs. After xylitol ingestion, dogs can become acutely hypoglycaemic (develop low blood sugar) leading to seizures and death, if not treated immediately. Tree or plant fruit stones (these may become an intestinal obstruction): Many garden trees and plants drop fruit stones, berries or seeds. Dogs (and sometimes cats) will eat these parts of the plant. Unfortunately ingestion of fruit stones, berries and seeds can lead to serious intestinal blockages/ obstructions which can be fatal. In addition, some fruit stones, berries or seeds may contain toxic compounds which can be poisonous to your pets. If you suspect that your pet may have ingested any of the above mentioned household items, contact your Veterinarian immediately.
Nepean News 19 March 2021 Issue 299
What common household dangers must I protect my pet from?
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Greencross Vets | Phone 47 313 055 Units 2 & 3/117 Coreen Ave, Penrith NSW 2750
Looking for adoptive parents and forever home
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riends of Hawkesbury Companion Animal Shelter seek the “extras” for the dogs and cats in care at Hawkesbury Pound. They also visit the pound each week and take photographs and temperament tests of the animals to post online and promote the animals. They upload their images and opinions of
these animals to Facebook, Twitter and PetRescue. To follow them, look them up on facebook and twitter. For any inquires related to these animals at Hawkesbury Pound, please contact them directly on (02) 4560 4644.
CAN BONNIE BE YOUR NEW BEST FRIEND
IS SWEET DOUG YOUR FOREVER DOG
Bonny is a friendly happy go lucky pup who is looking for her new forever home. She will need a little daily training and exercise and be allowed to spend her time with her new family. Bonny loves to explore new surroundings so she will need to be supervised till she settles in. If you are interested in adopting our lovely playful Bonny please come to the shelter with your family dog and the children to meet her Cost: $416.30 Age: 3 months Type: Puppy Breed: BULL ARAB Sex: Female Size: Large All prices include microchipping, lifetime council registration, desexing and 1st Vaccination. R251000145
Doug is a sweet dog with a very happy soft nature, he would be suited to a family that will have the time to give him the exercise and basic training that he will need to help him settle into his new home, Doug has been good with the other dogs while playing next to them in the exercise yard. If you are interested in adopting Doug please come to the shelter with the children and your family dog just so we can make sure they will all get on well together. He is already desexed so he will be able to leave the shelter with you. Cost: $333.50 Age: 9 months Type: Dog Breed: WOLFHOUND Sex: Male All prices include microchipping, lifetime council registration, and 1st Vaccination. R251000145
JUNIOR IS A GORGEOUS BOY THAT LOVES BEING AROUND PEOPLE
Junior is a very enthusiastic happy boy who just loves being around people. He would be best suited with a family who has had experience with large breed dogs as he can be quite strong. If you feel that you can give our happy friendly boy a new forever home where he will get the training he needs to help him settle into his new home please come to the shelter with your dog and the children to meet him. Cost: $416.30 Age: 8 months Type: Dog Breed: American Staffy Sex: Male Size: Large **All prices include microchipping, lifetime council registration, desexing and 1st Vaccination. R251000145
REILLY IS WAITING TO MEET YOU
Reilly is a mischievous little boy he would be best suited with a family who will enjoy spending lots of time playing with him. If you have been looking for a fun loving active kitten Reilly would be just perfect for you, so please come to the shelter to meet him. Cost: $171.30 Age: 3 months Type: Cat Breed: Domestic Short Hair Sex: Male
Nepean News 19 March 2021 Issue 299
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NEPEAN HISTORY
The Paget Bayly family of Bayly Park
until 1820 when he received a paid position as Cashier and Secretary of the Bank of NSW and his time was then divided between bank affairs and managing his Bayly Park property. icholas Bayly was a soldier and Sarah died at Parramatta in 1820 and he died the son of the original Nicholas Bayly in 1823. His property Bayly Park was sold to of Plas Newydd of Anglesea in Wales Richard Jones in 1826 who changed the name and his wife Frances, née Nettlefold of Kent to “Fleurs”. Their son Nicholas (Jnr) was now and also a nephew of Henry Paget-Bayly the an orphan and was taken to England in 1829 9th Baron Paget and 1st Earl of Uxbridge. by his uncle Henry to complete his education. The family name of Paget came from Henry On his return to Australia on the “Rubicon” in who took the surname “Paget” of his wife’s 1832 he entered the employment of Lieutenant family when he succeeded to the Paget Barony William Lawson who had properties at in 1770. Family influence helped Nicholas to Mudgee, Coolah and Liverpool Plains and in receive a commission without payment as an accordance with colonial custom part of his Ensign in the NSW Corps in 1797. In May salary was paid “in kind” with sheep. To run 1798 he sailed as Commander of the Guard in his flock in 1840 Nicholas bought a 14,000the “Barwell” claiming to have discovered a acre property at Mudgee later known as plot to seize the ship and placed the offender “Havilah” meaning “the land of gold” thought Ensign Bond under arrest. When they arrived to be words from a clergyman panning for gold in Sydney, Major Joseph Foveaux intervened, while picnicking on the property. Nicholas built and Bond resigned rather than stand trial. a quality stud, buying 1,000 ewes off the flock In 1799-1800 Nicholas received two land from King George 3rd to William Lawson and grants totaling 566 acres at Eastern Creek, but 2,500 from George Cox of “Burrundulla”. He towards the end of 1800 he was found on duty was widely respected and active in community at Norfolk Island. After his return to Sydney affairs and became an inaugural Councillor of Nicholas married in 1801 to Sarah Laycock the shire of Mudgee in 1843 and was on the the daughter of Thomas Laycock and Hannah foundation Committee of the Mudgee Pastoral Pearson at Homebush. Sarah was born in 1783 and Agricultural Association in 1846, but he Nicholas Bayly (Jnr) courtesy of the Bayly family in Dorset, England. A year later Nicholas was disliked entering exhibitions and shows, even court-martialed by the Governor for illegal possession of liquor and though he won several prizes that reflected the high standing of his stud. again when his commanding officer accused him of refusing to attend As a foundation Alderman of the breakaway Cudgegong municipality a meeting on the subject. Four weeks later he faced the first of several in 1860 he was also on the Committee for establishing a public hospital trials for undue severity towards his convict servants and in 1803 he in 1863. Some experts claimed that Nicholas’ strange decision in was arrested for distributing a lampoon about Governor King. His the 1870s to cull out some of his ewes that resulted in a significant personal animosity to Governor King and a long-standing sympathy decrease in the weight of fleece produced, but this was rectified when for John Macarthur determined his actions that were rewarded with Henry Charles White bought the estate in 1881. In the controversy appointments as Private Secretary to Major George Johnston and which arose in the 1860s over the comparative merits of Mudgee and acting Provost-Marshal, but by May 1808 he had fallen out with Victorian fleece, Nicholas challenged the Victorians to decide the issue Macarthur who described him as a “violent oppositionist” due to his by the prices obtained on the London market for 1866-67 and won disappointment at not receiving the spoils and favours he felt were the challenge. In February 1877 when the land was open for selection his due. He continued his troublesome reputation by taking a central he selected four blocks of 200 acres on the Gulgong goldfield under part in the events culminating in Governor Bligh’s deposition. He volunteer land orders said to be worth £135 each. Nicholas had married sent his resignation from the corps to England but retained Johnston’s Ellen Dickenson at Prospect in May 1840 and they had three children, confidence and appears to have won favour with Lieutenant-Governor but Ellen died there four years later. In January 1848 he married Sarah William Paterson who in 1809 appointed him Naval Officer and Amelia Blackman at Mudgee. He had been a Warden and Trustee of granted him, his wife and three children a total of 1,070 acres at St John the Baptist Church but in 1863 he donated £500 for building a Cabramatta. He also secured a lease of an unbelievably valuable Wesleyan church. He died at his property “Havilah” in October 1879 property namely the naval barracks. After Governor Macquarie’s at the age of 65 after an apoplectic fit (stroke) and buried in the Church arrival Nicholas was dismissed from public office but his grants were of England Memorial Park Cemetery at Mudgee. His probate at nearly confirmed. He was at first a supporter of the Governor but by 1816 he £40,000 did not include his real estate properties. A family monument later changed to side with Macquarie’s opponents and resumed his old is on the Mudgee-Lue road opposite the entrance to “Havilah” and a role of malcontent, but his private affairs suffered from the drought memorial window is in the Church of England church at Mudgee. and economic depression. In a letter in 1816 to Sir Henry Bunbury Sources: Mudgee Independent, Sydney Morning Herald, G. H. F. Cox “History of (a member of the British Parliament) Nicholas attacked Macquarie’s Mudgee”, State Library of NSW, Australian Dictionary of Biography, Ancestry, Information administration and pleaded for a colonial appointment claiming that his on Henry Charles White taken from the book “Daisy In Exile” from National Library of eight children were unprovided for but received no answer. It was not Australia, Trove, Australian Royalty.
By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.
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Nepean News 19 March 2021 Issue 299
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local news
Fun and Games at Museum of Fire in April
My Irish Mates Could be from Italy or Spain, Japan or the United States, All lovely people I’m sure, but have nothing on my Irish mates. The luck of the Irish, is a tale we all hear, And 100% of those stories involve a Guinness or a beer. We all have an Irish friend, and they’re Irish to be sure, With their laughter and good times, great experiences we do endure. Its takes me a while just to understand the words they say, But when we all get to hang out, it’s always a great day. Many now call Australia home and an Aussie many marry, ‘How’s it goen’ and ‘g’day mate’ now firm in their vocabulary. The Irish flag flies proudly, in orange, white and Celtic green, Each year they’ll celebrate St Patties day, then everyday in between. You see the Irish love life and make the most of any situation, Very hard to stress out or rarely cause others frustration. But there is a false belief that all our Irish mates do share, Us Aussies can see it clearly, so we should help them be aware.
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o celebrate the arrival of Penrith Monopoly, the Museum of Fire will be running a giant Monopoly Game during the upcoming school holidays, with lots of prizes on offer for visitors. The games will be held between 10.30am-1.30pm on 7th-8th April and the 14th-15th April and it will be free to play. There will also be fire engine rides to help entertain visitors. On the 21st April, it will be the turn of the older residents of the district to enjoy the fun, with the Museum hosting a special Seniors Day, as part of the NSW Seniors Festival. There will be free gift bags for the early birds (limited quantity), free morning team from 10-11am, free mini display of heritage vehicles not normally on display to the public and a fire safety demonstration. No bookings required. Phone 4731 3000.
The gold isn’t at the end of the rainbow like the leprechaun does claim, The gold’s in knowing these people, and how special our friendships became. So lets tip our hats as our new friends love Australia like their own, United we all stand together while they call our country home. - Dedicated to all those who celebrated St Patricks Day earlier this week.
See more tributes at mrdannytribute.com.au www.mrdannytribute.com.au
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The G Spot
do not profess to be a rocket scientist, neurosurgeon or an intelligent person in any scope, way or form. Matter of fact if you placed a pulse machine on each side of my temple, the power would not kick-start a light bulb. However, I have this evil curse that is technically known as “common sense.” It’s a dreaded curse that makes you question people’s intelligence level numerous times a day. Voices in your own head asking questions such as, “how does that person tie their own shoelaces?” It’s like the bonehead brigade is out in force some days and they are multiplying by the minute. Yes my avid fans, the curse of common sense is a curse that I do not wish upon anyone. It can hit you at any time: walking, sleeping, jogging or riding a bike. The question is, should I be vaccinated for it? Can vaccination stop this beast? But, once common sense hits you like a rash on a baby’s bum, a lightning
bolt out of the blue just appears there for no reason and its with you for life. Almost like a step-sibling, its there and you may not want it to be. I am sure you get the drift. With all this crap above I have probably placed you into a coma by now and the nods are setting in, but alas my G spotters, this is where it may get good, so hang in there. Grab a coffee, place your feet up and keep reading. One sunny afternoon I was heading home from work, which is an office that is fully marked SECURITY, has SECURITY cars and SECURITY people all around. Besides throwing in fireworks and dancing girls you couldn’t get more of an understanding that it is a SECURITY office. So anyway, in total disbelief we watched as two boneheads jumped a fence across the road of a factory that was still fully staffed and operational, allegedly to go to the site lunchroom and take phones and wallets and anything else not tied down.
Mr Monopoly visiting the Penrith Museum of Fire and the giant Monopoly Board. Photos supplied
With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security
Let me reiterate again, so you get the setting in your mind right, this is a fully operational and staffed factory and it is daylight. Then the bonehead brigade jump back over the fence across from a SECURITY company and think the coast is clear. Like hello! That’s like ringing the cops and alerting them that a bust is about to happen and giving the location and day. So anyway, the bonehead brigade notices our security personnel and starts running with all the crap in their bags – throw in the word allegedly. Because they are innocent until proven guilty. Don’t get me started on the justice system or this story will get ugly. Sigh. So bonehead One jumps in the lake at Waterside and swims across it, where he was expecting to go we don’t know. Bonehead Two keeps running up the street. The factory workers hear all the commotion going on and realise that the lunchroom is
allegedly missing their stuff and run out screaming like banshees with an ingrown toenail. Security is on the tail of the bonehead brigade up and down the road. Police get involved and the rest as they say, is history. So as I ponder my navel and pick out a few fluff pieces here and there and twist my hair strands a few times, I guess this highlights the dreaded curse of common sense and lack thereof. One has to question why would you break into a place across the road from a security company? Oops hang on, allegedly. How do two boneheads walk onto a site without anyone noticing, go to a lunch room (allegedly) take stuff (allegedly) and then jump a fence with bags full of crap (allegedly). So there you have it, the story of the dreaded curse of common sense. I believe that medical practitioners may be testing for it in the not so distant future and it should be covered by Medicare very soon?
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ENTERTAINMENT
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he long held tradition will continue at one of Penrith region’s most historic locations in April. The historic Arms of Australia Inn Museum will provide a beautiful backdrop, full of colour and beautiful quilts for the traditional Airing of the Quilts. The Caring Hearts Community Quilters are having their annual fundraising event at the museum located on the Great Western Highway, Emu Plains from 10am to 4pm. There will be over 150 quilts on display, Trading Table, Gift Stall with handmade gifts, book stall and refreshments. They will have a colourful quilt to raffle with the proceeds going to Motor Neurone Disease. The senior ladies that make up this group of dedicated patch-workers have been stitching their special kind of magic into quilts now for 21 years, they take pride in the knowledge that they are truly doing something they love to do and bringing joy and comfort to those that receive them at the same time. These ladies over the years have been recognised for the work they do in the community with a Premiers Award in 2001, an Achievement Award, given to them in Seniors Week 2011, and one of the founding members with an award for Woman of Initiative in 2009 from Zonta International. The quilts are given out to palliative care patients in the Nepean, Hawkesbury and Blue Mountains areas, Children’s and Neo-natal Wards at Nepean
Hospital, local Women’s refuge, Blue Mountains and Nepean Cancer Wellness Centres and to families that have fallen on hard times. This is a beautiful way for the quilters to exhibit their quilts. Whilst not exhibition quilts, they have all been made with love in each stitch and to see them hung in this tradition is a special treat. Hopefully there is good weather, as this is an outdoor event. AIRING OF THE QUILTS Saturday 10th April, 2021, 10am-4pm Arms Of Australia Inn Museum, Corner Great Western Highway and Gardenia Street, Emu Plains
COST TO SEE THE QUILTS $5 Admission changes apply to visit the Museum. The Arms of Australia Inn Museum is administered by the Nepean District Historical Society (NDHS) and was once the staging post for travellers making the trip from Sydney over to Blue Mountains to Bathurst and nearby goldfields. Built in two sections, the first, in 1826, it is one of the oldest buildings in Penrith, if not the oldest. Due to its colourful history the Inn provides an interesting venue for local activities, tour groups, special events, school tours and exhibitions.
The 2021 Q Theatre Lab Artists-in-Residence
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he Artists are in the house! Deborah Pollard and Thomas Campbell have been selected as the 2021 Q Theatre Lab Artists-in-Residence, kicking off this week at The Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre in Penrith. There was significant interest in the program this year, resulting in a highly competitive selection process. For the first time since Q Lab was established in 2013, the program will culminate in public performances, in a double bill on 25-26 March. Deborah Pollard is a theatre director, performance maker and artist based in Sydney, Australia. Her artistic practice has encompassed a diverse range of collaborations – working with dancers, farmers, performers and visual artists, among others. Trained originally in theatre as a performer and director, Deborah’s practice has shifted over the past 20 years to a hybrid of performance and visual arts. She has a PhD from the University of Wollongong and is currently an Adjunct Lecturer at the University of NSW. Pollard’s work for Q Theatre Lab will be Eighteen Years On. Every year more and more people experience the impacts of bushfire devastation. This is the story of one such family who lost their home during the 2003 Canberra bushfires. Eighteen years on they still remember, they can’t forget - but they can carry on. With wry wit, compelling storytelling and song, Deborah Pollard conjures into being a theatrical portrait of the very human face of climate change catastrophe. Thomas Campbell graduated from NIDA in 2002 and Mountview (UK) in 2010. He has performed for leading theatre companies including Belvoir, Ensemble Theatre and Sydney Theatre Company; in comedy and cabaret including Connie Chang’s Cabaret Roadshow, and One Hander; and he cohosts the successful Luminary Podcast, Celeste and her Best with Celeste Barber. His screen credits include Love and Monsters, Downton Abbey,
Love My Way, and the Academy Award nominated short film, The Saviour. He is a recipient of both the Mike Walsh and Marten Bequest Fellowships and winner of three Sydney Theatre Awards. Campbell’s residency work for Q Theatre Lab will be his debut play, Betty is a Butcher, involving five characters, five reasons to live and an odyssey towards death. A collage of memory, these characters jostle for existence in a theatrical phantasmagoria filled with dark humour, pathos and unsettling personal narrative. Betty is a Butcher is written and performed by Campbell and directed by Kate Gaul. Q THEATRE LAB is Q Theatre’s annual artist-in-residence program. The sought after residency makes creative space and time for the
development of dynamic projects at an early stage of their conception. Projects are selected through an open callout process and successful applicants receive financial assistance, work-space, technical and dramaturgical support for dedicated creative development concluding with a ticketed preview performance. Two 30-minute preview performances by Campbell and Pollard offer audiences the chance to peek behind the curtain and see two plays, fresh off the page. Q Theatre Lab is an intimate night of new experiences from leading independent artists. Performances 7:30pm, Thursday 25 and Friday 26 March Residency location: The Joan (Penrith)
Nepean News 19 March 2021 Issue 299
The tradition continues: airing of the quilts
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ENTERTAINMENT
Nepean News 19 March 2021 Issue 299
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Lakeside Long Lunch: the festival we deserve
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cultural change is coming to the West - say hello to the Lakeside Long Lunch! This event is being touted as not just the West’s Premier Food and Wine Event, but Sydney’s premier event too. Saturday the 24th of April, 11am6pm, dawns a new era in festivals for the Greater-Penrith region. The Sydney International Regatta is partnering with Lakeside Long Lunch (LLL) to put on the festival that Penrith deserves. The concept? It’s easy. The LLL provides a one stop wine tour of Australia’s favourite wine destinations. Partnering with brands such as Robert
Oatley, Hentley Farm, Bimbadgen Estate and even Piper-Heidsieck (for the champagne enthusiasts amongst us), the LLL brings you the best of our Hunter, Barossa, Yarra, Margaret River and Central West wine regions whilst James Squires manages the beers. It doesn’t stop at wine - your ticket includes a gourmet meal from the Lakeside Pavilion which, accompanied by some seriously high-end food truck providers, Chechos, Burger Head in attendance plus a dozen other local food vendors, will have the foodies licking their lips. Food and wine, is that it? Absolutely not. The LLL has assembled an impressive list of performers for all-
day live entertainment (Sneaky Sound System and Thirsty Merc head-lining) to keep you moving all day long. Paired with activations such as an adults only ball pit, silent disco, bucking bull, Pinot & Picasso sessions, flower crown making, adult Jumping Castle and helicopter rides - there will be something to keep revellers occupied all day long. It’s a long way away from the Wild West of old - but it surely heralds a cultural transformation of the Penrith region. For better or for worse - The Lakeside Long Lunch looks to shake up those misconceptions of what the foothills of the Blue Mountains is all about.
OUT N ABOUT with Malama
Pampered possessions clothing sale Where: U3A Hall, Castlereagh Street, Penrith When: Sunday 28th March, 1.00 – 4.00 pm Cost: Free Bring your friends and your shopping bags! A Zonta project to achieve positive outcomes for women in the local community.
Calling all trivia buffs Don’t miss Grey’s Anatomy Trivia Night in Squires at Panthers this April! If you love Grey’s and think you know everything about all 17 seasons of everyone’s favourite medical drama, make sure you join in on Thursday 8 April! There will be plenty of challenging questions about your favourite interns, residents and attendings, exclusive themed cocktails and awesome prizes to be won! Tickets are on sale Thursday 25 March. Check out all the details at http://bit.ly/greys-anatomy-trivia
Live bands are back! • Urban Stone playing at Penrith RSL, 20 March
• Talk It Up playing at the Colonial Hotel Werrington, 25 March • Rogue Syndicate at the Colonial Hotel Werrington, 2 April • Royale with Cheese at Penrith RSL, 24 April
Celebrate in harmony It’s Harmony Week, and to celebrate, Council is hosting a free community event in Coachmans Park, St Marys from 6pm-8pm on Friday 19 March. The COVID-safe event will include music and cultural performances, the chance to enjoy some food and the launch of “A Place to Call Home” videos featuring the stories of residents from refugee backgrounds in Penrith. Come along and share the Harmony Week message – everyone belongs!
School holidays on sale
The April School Holiday schedule at Panthers Penrith has plenty of fun activities for your kids! • FREE movies • FREE Magic show • Kids Disco • Kids Craft • Kids Bingo • Sports Clinic and more! See website for full details http://bit.ly/ panthersschoolhols
Penrith Producers returns to Triangle Park Eat, drink and enjoy some fine tunes when Penrith Producers returns to Triangle Park on Friday 26 March. Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown OAM said she was looking forward to the chance to celebrate our local food industry at the free, outdoor, COVID-Safe event. “Council is committed to creating vibrant and inclusive events for our community to enjoy,” she said. “Penrith Producers is a great way to celebrate our fantastic producers, build networks and support local businesses, all while encouraging our community to enjoy Penrith after dark.” Cr McKeown said Triangle Park was the perfect venue for the event. “It’s right in the heart of our City and looks quite magical with strings of lights and special furniture elements added in,” she said. At Penrith Producers our community, workers and
visitors will have the chance to enjoy a glass of wine or try local craft beer from Rusty Penny and Casey’s breweries. They can also savour Texas-style BBQ delights from the Smokin Hot and Saucy crew or treat themselves to the wares of Underground Coffee Roasters, Pasticceria Dolce Mia, MJAYS Café, Cana Farm and G-Free Donuts. The event is curated by Penrith City Council and funded through The Festival of Place, a NSW Government initiative to support food and beverage operators and producers while encouraging a safe return to public spaces through city activation. Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres MP said the initiative would offer timely support to city centre businesses. “Businesses across Penrith have done it tough this past year,” Mr Ayres said. “With funding from the NSW Government’s Festival of Place grants, events
like Penrith Producers will help businesses get back on track.” “I encourage people to stay local on 26 March and pop down to the Triangle Park to enjoy some great food and fabulous entertainment.” Cr McKeown said the entertainment will be provided by The Mt. Trio band featuring Ricky Nifo, who performed as part of Council’s popular Thursday Night Live – Lockdown Series. “We’re lucky to live in a city that is home to so many talented musicians and unique food and drink offerings,” Cr McKeown said. “To be able to enjoy them all together as part of Penrith Producers is quite literally the icing on the cake” The event will be held in Triangle Park on Friday 26 March from 6pm-10pm. Find out more at www.penrithproud.com.au/penrith-producers
To advertise in Nepean News or request your event to be added call Malama on 0416 203 777 OR EMAIL: sales@nepeannews.com.au
ENTERTAINMENT
Nepean News 19 March 2021 Issue 299
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Bound by circumstance: The Cemetery Club
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his bittersweet comedy is the story of three widows who live in Queens, New York. They are the surviving half of three sets of long-time best friends, each of whom is in a different stage of healing and moving on with her life. Once a month the three women meet to pay their respects to their husbands, who are all buried in the same cemetery. The women are bound together by their hurt, their healing and the discovery that they are more alike than they believed.
Performance dates: April 3rd, 10th 7pm and 17th 2pm & 7pm Ticket price is $30 for adults and $25 concession, $40 at the door. To book tickets go to www.trybooking.com/BLXSZ | To reserve show only phone (02) 47355422. “THE CEMETERY CLUB” will be performed at John Lees Centre, 15 Evan Street; Penrith. www.rubyproductions.com.au
CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Home chores (9) 6 Draws through a straw (5) 9 Pertaining to the most populous country (7) 10 Flightless bird (7) 11 Saliva (7) 12 Not lawful (7) 13 Raising (9) 15 The front part of a stair (5) 16 A piece of armor to protect thighs (5) 19 History of a word (9) 22 Fortified wine (7) 23 Hunting guide (7) 25 Mind an infant (7) 26 Occurring at the beginning (7) 27 Made easier to bear (5) 28 Prolonged unfulfilled desires (9)
solution 5/3/21
down 1 Chops (5) 2 Use (7) 3 A daughter of Agamemnon (Greek mythology) (7) 4 Overweight (5) 5 Wittingly (9) 6 Pioneer (7) 7 Flinches (7) 8 Academic (9) 13 May be computed (9) 14 Imprecisely (9) 17 Flashing lights (7) 18 Having passed (7) 20 Personal belief (7) 21 Applause (7) 23 A Eurasian goat-like antelope (5) 24 Runs an engine in neutral (5)
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Nepean News 19 March 2021 Issue 299
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ENTERTAINMENT Morning Melodies: Headliners Stars of Yesterday and Today to appear this month at the Joan!
T
hree of today’s incredible performers, Danny Elliott, Grant Galea and Angela Ayers, along with the Greg Hooper Trio are banding together to bring you some of the greatest singers of all time. Multi-award-winning Danny Elliott will bring you the fabulous music of the one and only Elton John while Grant Galea will take you back in time with the smooth tunes of the iconic Bobby Darin, Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra.
Angela Ayers will enthral audiences with that lovely lilting sound of the legendary Linda Ronstadt, and will weave her way through Linda’s famous songs such as Silver Threads and Golden Needles, Blue Bayou and many more including Gershwin’s beautiful Someone to Watch Over Me. 24 March 2021, 11am - Tickets: Pre-booked and paid $22, Purchase on the day $25. www.thejoan.com.au/ events/headliners-2021/
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Nepean News 19 March 2021 Issue 299
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SPORT
2021 Penrith Open Canoe Slalom Series completed By Noel Rowsell
J
essica Fox has again stamped her authority in the Australian canoe rankings, finishing 1st in both the C1 and K1 Women’s events from the 3 Round Penrith Open Canoe Slalom Series. Jessica and younger sister Noemie grabbed the quinella of 1st and 2nd respectively in 10 out of 12 races during the Series, with up and coming young paddler Kate Eckhardt managing to break up the sister act twice in the opening round in the K1 event. Jessica, Noemie and Codie Davidson ultimately finished at the top of the Series placings in 1st, 2nd and 3rd positions respectively, in both the C1 and K1 events. Dan Watkins took out the C1 Men’s Series, ahead of Brodie Crawford and Kaylen Bassett, whilst Lucien Delfour won the K1 Men’s Series, ahead of Tim Anderson and Ben Pope. In the newly-introduced Extreme Slalom, Kaylen Bassett took out the debut Series, ahead of Ewan Mackie (2nd), then Ben Pope and Dan Watkins tied for 3rd.
Codie Davidson
Tim Anderson
Action photos from Round 1 of the 2021 Penrith Open Canoe Slalom Series. File photos by Noel Rowsell
Dan Watkins
Noemie Fox
SPORT By Noel Rowsell
T
he Nepean Oztag Under 9 and Under 14 Boys teams are the new Junior State Cup Title holders, following the running of the event under the guidance of Tournament Director and former NRL referee Bill Harrigan. Nepean’s U9 Boys played at Bass Hill and were coached by Kyle Fletcher, putting in a champion performance over 2 gruelling days of action, winning 4 games on the Saturday and 2 games on Sunday to advance to the playoffs. Nepean then won their semifinal, before managing to overcome Tamworth 3-0 in the grand final. A total of 24 teams competed in the U9 Division at the State Championships, with Nepean playing in Pool A in the preliminary rounds. Jade Fletcher admits trying to talk her husband out of the coaching role at the start of the season but he would not be denied, taking on the responsibility and subsequently putting hours of work into the role, both in coaching with his 2 assistants, in addition to reviewing video tapes of every game. The boys trained 2 hours per week prior to the start of the season, then stepped up to 2 x 2-hour sessions twice
The Nepean U9 and U14 Boys teams following their respective State Cup victories. Photos supplied
per week once the season commenced. Kyle has now also been appointed in the District head coaching role, with a ‘mega-team’ comprising players from Nepean, Hills District and Norwest to play in another tournament in Coffs
Harbour in October. Trials will be held at The Kingsway Sporting Fields in St Marys, with the squad expected to be announced in June. The Nepean U14 Boys played in 2nd Division in their age group in Coffs
Harbour and also captured their State Title, defeating Heathcote Engadine 10-2. The U9 and U11 Nepean Girls teams both finished runner-up in their respective age divisions.
Dunheved and Wallacia Golf Clubs to play for Division Titles in Major Pennants By Noel Rowsell
D
unheved GC and Wallacia CC have both won promotion to a higher division in Major Pennants for 2022, following impressive semi-final victories on Sunday. Dunheved defeated Asquith GC 5-2 at Stonecutters Ridge GC, led by Coby Carruthers 3&2, Cain Fitzsimmons 2&1, Craig Williams 1-up, Dean Neill on the 19th and Daniel Ayre 3&2. Muirfield GC won the other semifinal against Kogarah GC 5.5-1.5 and will now face Dunheved on 21st March at Terrey Hills Country & GC to decide the Division Title - both clubs win promotion to Division 2 next year. Wallacia CC defeated Rosnay GC 5-2, also at Stonecutters Ridge GC, led by Chris Holmes 6&5, Reece Hackett 4&3, Jason Jamieson 5&4,
Dunheved GC Major Pennant squad member Dean Neill in action during the South Creek Cup. Photo by Noel Rowsell’
Robert Walker 4&3 and John Pagett 5&3. Kareela GC defeated Macarthur Grange GC 5-2 in the other semi-final and will now face Wallacia at Terrey Hills Country & GC on 21st March to decide the Division Title - both clubs win promotion to Division 4 next year. Stonecutters Ridge played Castle Hill in one of the Division 2 semifinals on the Bungool course at Riverside Oaks GC but could not rise to the occasion on the day, falling 5.51.5 and will now remain in Division 2 in 2022. In the Ladies Major Pennants, Penrith GC fell 4-1 to Moore Park GC on the Bungool course at Riverside Oaks GC on Sunday and will remain in Division 2 in 2022. All Relegation matches were postponed and will be played at a later date.
Nepean News 19 March 2021 Issue 299
Two Nepean Junior boys teams capture NSW Junior State Cup Titles
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Nepean News 19 March 2021 Issue 299
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SPORT
Penrith Whitewater Stadium to host 2025 ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships
Action from the Penrith Whitewater Stadium during the 2021 Penrith Open Canoe Slalom Series. Photos by Noel Rowsell By Noel Rowsell
P
enrith has been announced as host city for the 2025 ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships, with plans to revamp the Whitewater Stadium included in the bid presented by Paddle Australia with the support of the Australian Government, NSW Government and Penrith City Council. 25 years after it hosted Canoe Slalom at the Sydney Olympics, Penrith Whitewater Stadium will once again welcome the world’s best paddlers and host the Canoe Slalom and Extreme Canoe Slalom World Titles. ICF President Jose Perurena said returning to an Olympic venue was important for the sport. “Returning to Sydney underlines how our Olympic venues can provide a wonderful legacy for a host city,” Mr Perurena said. “Penrith will also be an important host, ahead of the possibility of Brisbane hosting the 2032 Olympic Games.” The 2025 event will run from 1 October to 6 October, the year Penrith will celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. In the lead up to the World Championships, Penrith will also host ICF Oceania Championships and Australian Open events, which will help the athletes and organisers prepare for the World Champions competition. This will be the third time an ICF Canoe Slalom World Championship has been awarded to Australia. Penrith previously hosted the Canoe Slalom Senior World Championships in 2005 and the Junior and Under 23 World Championships in 2014. Paddle Australia CEO Phil Jones said “This event will inspire a new
generation of competitors, much as the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games Canoe and Kayak competition inspired some of the biggest names in our sport today, including Australian Olympian and silver medalist Jessica Fox.” Jessica who lives in the Penrith region, played a key role in the video presentation supporting Australia’s bid to the International Canoe Federation, delivering the vision for the event and detailing the facilities and appeal of her home area. In the video, Jessica tells the story of how watching the competition in 2000 inspired her own Olympic journey. “I was 6 years old when I sat high in the stands at Penrith Whitewater Stadium, cheering on Australia and watching Stepanka Hilgertova, Tony Estanguet, Thomas Schmidt and the Hochshorner brothers win gold at the Sydney Olympics. It was the beginning of my Olympic dreams,” says Jessica in the video. “Twenty-five years on, we’d love to welcome the world back to Penrith for a world championship full of promise and opportunity, for the athletes, the sport and our community.” The Mayor of Penrith, Councillor Karen McKeown OAM, said “This is another proud moment for the city (Penrith), which has hosted several international canoe slalom events in the years since the Sydney 2000 Olympics. “A successful World Championships will promote our city, be valuable to our tourism economy and give our community access to a world class event,” said Councillor McKeown. Full operational details of the 2025 ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships will be developed over the coming months, as Paddle Australia works closely with the International Canoe Federation and key stakeholders on plans for the event.
PENRITH PANTHERS
SPORT
Celebrating 30 years since the mighty Panthers’ first grand final win achieved them.” The road trip was timed perfectly and the bus made it to grand final day. Bentley started the game in the centres before interchanging with Brad Izzard for the second half and watching nervously from the sideline. He identified Royce Simmons’ two tries among highlights of the day. “I was really happy for Royce, it was his last game and he’s been there through the good times and the hard times,” Bentley said. “You’re so grateful that you get an opportunity to win something so big like this and Royce said ‘you create history here, you’ll be the first team to win a grand final at Penrith and nobody can take that away ’, that was a big thing. Looking back on his career Bentley is happy with what he achieved and remains grateful to have been a part of Penrith history.” “I was very fortunate to play in a couple of grand finals and win one.”
By GREG YANDA
W
HEN I sat down with Col Bentley for this yarn it was clear just how significant the 1991 premiership was, not only for himself and the playing group, but the community, including the thousands of people who came out to welcome the champions home. “I still remember people lined up from the Northern Road and down Mulgoa Road and around the back of the club where there was a paddock,” Bentley said. “There seemed like about 5000 people came running out to the bus, and I remember MG (Mark Geyer) saying ‘we’re The Beatles’. “To think that it’s been 30 years is surreal.” Success didn’t come immediately for the centre from the Northern Rivers after debuting in 1986, ironically signing his first contract with future Canberra Raiders coach Tim Sheens, who he credits for laying a good foundation for the Penrith junior league which has grown to what it is today. Bentley described the first couple of seasons at the club as lean, as the Panthers finished 8th in 1986 and 12th in 1987. They started to gather some momentum in 1988 with the arrival of experienced players Chris Mortimer, Peter Kelly and coach Ron Willey. “That was the big change in how we played – we had a real good mix of youth and experience,” Bentley said. When Phil ‘Gus’ Gould arrived in 1990 the Panthers were on the threshold of a title, having lost the grand final to Sheens’ Raiders. “Gus came in and was a brilliant tactician, he had great game plans and we had success,” Bentley said.
Nepean News 19 March 2021 Issue 299
BOUND BY GLORY COL BENTLEY
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Col Bentley displays The Panthers Men In Black in the foyer at Panthers Leagues Club. Photo Greg Yanda.
“He was just the person we needed to take us to that next level. “Losing a grand final really scars you but it makes you hungrier for the next year.” At the first session of the ’91 preseason Gould gathered the playing group and set out a virtual road map to get back to the grand final, and it was going to be a week by week proposition.
“Gus was saying this is our road trip and in nine months we want to be at the Sydney Football Stadium,” Bentley explained. “He’s a great orator and he gets you believing in the story and I do remember that quite clearly. “Halfway through the year he said ‘guys, we are at Parramatta’. It was good how he framed it in little bite sized goals along the way and we
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Celebrity ROUND 2
ROUND 3
PAR NZW GCT BUL MAN NQC WES CRO PAN stg SOU CAN BRI PAR NEW NQC MEL NEW BRI PAN SOU STG SYD CAN MEL man SYD NZW BUL CRO WES GCT Mar 18 8.05pm
Mar 19 6.00pm
Mar 19 8.05pm
Mar 20 3.00pm
March 20 5.30pm
Mar 20 7.35pm
Mar 21 4.05pm
Mar 21 6.15pm
Mar 25 8.05pm
Mar 26 6.00pm
Mar 26 8.05pm
Mar 27 3.00pm
Mar 27 5.30pm
Mar 27 7.35pm
Mar 28 4.05pm
Mar 28 6.15pm
SCORE
Jeff TobyWatson Hughes- -Club Sinclair President, Hyundai St- Marys 4720 1111 Band Club - 9623 1211
10 Natalie Ballard - Novus Law Group - 0404 474 084
14
John Kibbey - Raine & Horne Commercial - 0417 228 538
★ 18
Vic Shipley - Powersmart Electrical - 0415 982 093
12 Brett McVea - National Locksmiths - 0404 842 170
12 Bec Passlow - Pioneer Tavern - 4736 4647
14 Derry - O’Donovans Pty Ltd - 4736 1400
14 Daniel Galea - Adenbrook Homes - 9622 4091
14 Ross Franklyn-Smith - Club President, St Marys Diggers & Band Club - 9623 1211
14 Terry ‘Mad Dog” Corbett - St Clair Comets Councillor Benard Bratusa
12 Greg Penrith Councillor AaronDavies Tyres -- @print
12
Come join the family
mgactiv.com.au
TIPSTERS ROUND 2
ROUND 3
PAR NZW GCT BUL MAN NQC WES CRO PAN stg SOU CAN BRI PAR NEW NQC MEL NEW BRI PAN SOU STG SYD CAN MEL man SYD NZW BUL CRO WES GCT Mar 18 8.05pm
Mar 19 6.00pm
Mar 19 8.05pm
Mar 20 3.00pm
March 20 5.30pm
Mar 20 7.35pm
Mar 21 4.05pm
Mar 21 6.15pm
Mar 25 8.05pm
Mar 26 6.00pm
Mar 26 8.05pm
Mar 27 3.00pm
Mar 27 5.30pm
Mar 27 7.35pm
Mar 28 4.05pm
Mar 28 6.15pm
SCORE
Mark Geyer - Nepean News Columnist and Owner of MG Activ
10 Prue Car - Member for Londonderry - 9833 1122
14 Jim Hill - Nepean Solar - 0425 281 626
12 Alex McKenzie - Future Financial Services - 0414 330 651
14 Aaron Tyers - @print - 4731 5055
8 Will Wise - East West Building & Kitchens - 9673 2621
14 Brock Shepperd - Wests Harold Matthews Coach
14 Natasha Hemms - Big Swing Golf - 4721 1296
14 Dale ‘Tex’ Walker - Sports Journalist, Nepean News
10 Steve Beard - Select Mortgage - 0403 166 207
14 Samantha Shakesphere - Bespoke Realty Group - 4737 9977
10
“Where you can be you”
mgactiv.com.au
Nepean News 19 March 2021 Issue 299
44
SPORT
PENRITH PANTHERS
Tex’s TALES
with Dale ‘Tex’ Walker Round 1 is done and dusted and it comes as no surprise to see the likes of the Panthers, Storm, Roosters and Raiders dominating their opposition. On Saturday night at home, the Panthers controlled the game against the Cowboys and were never in any doubt of victory. James Fisher-Harris was unstoppable, running for 219 metres and making 30 tackles through the middle of the field. Out wide Brian To’o came out of the game with 184 running metres, 12 tackle breaks and a spectacular four-pointer whilst Matt Eisenhuth led the tackle count with 32. It was the perfect start to the season from Ivan Cleary’s men, but the opposition lacked quality and many will agree that the Cowboys will not threaten the top half of the competition. So it’s off to Bankwest this Saturday afternoon to greet Trent Barrett and the new look Bulldogs. They looked good early against the Knights last weekend, but the wheels fell off in the second half. Barrett will have a point to prove and will want to impress against the Panthers. He has so much inside knowledge based on his efforts with the team last season and will have a game plan. That plan will be to stop the Panthers go forward and suffocate Cleary and Luai. But the Panthers have the strike power right across the park and Ivan Cleary will have a good idea of what to expect from Barrett. One gets the impression if opposing teams target Kyle Flanagan and keep him quiet it will certainly go a long way to producing a victory. Ex-Panther Jack Hetherington will no doubt be ready to spice things up with his aggression, don’t be surprised if the fireworks are on early. Tip: Panthers by 18.
James Fisher-Harris was at his brilliant best against the Cowboys on Saturday night.
Cooper Cronk - a busy man with both The Roosters and Melbourne Storm
I can understand Cooper Cronk making hay while the sun shines but being employed by two NRL clubs aiming for the same prize just doesn’t seem right. Like many, I really like Cooper Cronk as a person and commentator, but mentoring influential playmakers from both clubs is a conflict of interest. I’m sure Kerrie and the team at Nepean News wouldn’t like it if I were to start writing a column for the rival local news outlet. Someone who works for Thrifty certainly isn’t getting paid from a competitor like Hertz or Europcar Rentals. Put it this way if The Roosters and Storm play off in the grand final, there will be one set of supporters far from impressed when they get beaten.
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PENRITH PANTHERS
with Dale ‘Tex’ Walker
Profiteer is a leading chance in this Saturday’s Golden Slipper at Rosehill Gardens. (Photo courtesy Bradley Photographers) It’s Golden Slipper day at Rosehill Gardens tomorrow afternoon and champion jockey Hugh Bowman is confident he has made the right chance on taking the ride aboard Profiteer. Profiteer was narrowly beaten in the Todman Stakes two weeks ago and was game in defeat after being out under pressure in the lead for most of the race. Following his victory in the All Star Mile on Saturday, jockey Hugh Bowman is looking for back to back feature wins with Profiteer. “I’m very confident in his chances,” said Bowman. “My thoughts from his last run were that I would have liked to have won obviously but I can see the horse improving significantly from that.”
Sky Racing’s number 1 gallops caller Darren Flindell is keen on the unbeaten Four Moves Ahead for trainer John Sargent. “She has the tactical speed to win the race,” said Flindell. “I think she will position well and is one of few runners who is proven on the predicted heavy ground. “My roughie of the race is another filly in Mallory. She’s a dour filly who will be strong late in the testing conditions.” Four Moves Ahead ($8.50) came up with gate ten at the barrier draw whilst Profiteer frimed in the market after drawing alley five to a $4 equal favourite . Mallory has also drawn well in gate 6 with bookmakers offering $26.
Being the NSW State of Origin half back comes with intense scrutiny - just ask Mitchell Pearce. Nathan Cleary is at the stage of his career where he needs to go to the next level which will define him as one of the game’s greats. Beaten in an Origin series and Grand Final cuts deep with pain and like an NFL Quarterback, the critics will always want to blame the playmaker. I believe Nathan will go to that next level and his recent decision to call on four former Panthers Skippers is a smart one.
Cleary turned to Penrith Deputy Chairman Greg Alexander, Royce Simmons, Peter Wallace and Craig Gower for guidance and direction. “Royce is at the club every day, I talk to him and am always trying to learn, Cleary told the Daily Telegraph. “We are really lucky to have Brandy and Peter Wallace around and I see Craig Gower a fair bit. I’m still scratching the surface and feel there is a long way to go, not only footy and skill wise but with leadership also. There are always things to learn.”
The stupidity of young footballers never ceases to amaze, but hey, we were all young once. This time it’s Rooster Victor Radley who copped a $20,000 fine and suspension for two games after being involved in a fracas in Byron Bay over the summer. Victor has his reasons for his actions but in this day and age footballers must be aware they just shouldn’t be getting involved. As my mother always told me, count to ten and then make up your mind! I could easily list a dozen more incidents over the past year and it’s becoming more disappointing every time a player puts a blight on the reputation of the NRL. The same question keeps getting asked, when will they learn? Unless players are hit tremendously hard (lengthy suspensions and significant fines), the message will not get through - no footballer wants to spend half the year on the sidelines. You can’t turn a boy into a man overnight, but you can guide them in the right direction and get players to understand their responsibility. To be honest, as a supporter of the NRL it is downright embarrassing to see a player in the headlines for the wrong reasons. It gives rival codes plenty of ammunition and don’t the journos love the sensationalism? As soon as it seemingly gets better, BANG, there goes another foolish fool making the wrong choices. So are the clubs failing? They must portion some of the blame, do they have the correct systems, guidance and counsellors in place? Peter V’landys and the NRL tried their darndest to grab Police Chief Mick Fuller to put strategies and policies forward that would reduce the amount of issues - believe me, some of the players would have been crapping themselves had Fuller got the gig. Eventually the State Government advised Fuller he could not be in two places at once and his 100 percent attention was required with the NSW Police Force. Knowing V’landys it won’t be long before hardcore penalities for any player bringing the game into dispute are announced.
45 Nepean News 19 March 2021 Issue 299
Tex’s TALES
SPORT
The GWS Giants commence their AFL campaign against St Kilda this Sunday afternoon. In a new look type squad GWS will unleash a pair of AFL debutants against St Kilda . Hard-luck ruckman Matt Flynn and first-round draftee Tanner Bruhn – fresh from kicking four goals against Sydney in the Community Series two Sundays ago – will be in the final 22.
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Nepean News 19 March 2021 Issue 299
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SPORT
PENRITH PANTHERS
Coach’s Corner Round 1 Reactions
Panthers Stadium Fortress The Panthers have not lost a game at Panthers Stadium since Sunday July 28, 2019. That is exactly 600 days ago today. They are building a real home fortress with a desire to not let the parochial and adoring home fans down. This unbelievable home record will go on the line next Thursday night in the huge Grand Final rematch against the Melbourne Storm in Round 3. Cameron Ciraldo should take a bow for the performance of the Panthers defence on Saturday night against the Cowboys. The Panthers were outstanding particularly on their own line and managed to keep a talented North Queensland outfit to zero in the opening round of the competition. Exemptions For Joseph Joseph Suaalii was granted an exemption from the NRL on Monday to make his debut prior to turning 18 (the age restriction the NRL places on
junior players to turn before they can make their first grade debut). Living inside the large Rugby League bubble that is Western Sydney and Penrith specifically places me in a position to see a lot of the up and coming talent and the NRL may need to rethink their age restriction stance if they are going to create a grey area in granting certain players exemptions to debut over others who have to wait to blow the candles out on their 18th birthday cake. Payten Bakes JT We have all heard the best way to achieve our goals is to work consistently on the task at hand. Don’t look past your current job is the advice often given. But if you want to be great in the role you will potentially have in the future today is the day to start. And for an aspiring coach like me I spent Sunday pondering whether I would have approached the post game press conference the same way Todd
Brock Shepperd Mounties Ron Massey Cup Head Coach Fifth and Last NRL Podcast b.shepperd@hotmail.com
Payten did on Saturday night where he singled out his best and highest paid player in Jason Taumalolo for taking “shortcuts”. Personally I would not have outed a player through my own frustration at an ordinary result this early in the season and this early in the tenure as head coach of the Cowboys organisation. But it does show that Payten has gone away and thought about what he wants and expects from his players and has a clear plan on what it will take to get the best out of the Cowboys roster. Farewell Forrest My best mate Tim Whiticker and his beautiful wife Jess lost their best friend Forrest the Golden Retriever tragically at age 6 since my last column. There are plenty of dog lovers who read Nepean News and this column specifically. Sending our love guys!
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Fire burns for Kikau By GREG YANDA
P
E N R I T H PA N T H E R S back-rower Villiame Kikau has a burning desire to bring the NRL premiership trophy back to Penrith after last year’s grand final loss to the Melbourne Storm. The players have reviewed the tapes and know what’s required; now it’s about applying the principles to their performances week to week. “We still have the fire in the belly to hopefully go one better this year,” Kikau said after the Panthers’ opening round win over North Queensland. “We don’t really want to talk about it too much but we definitely looked at it when we started back at preseason. We just have to learn how to keep calm in big games.” Kikau has set an individual goal of maintaining fitness so he can play every week – he’s not a good spectator. “I just want to play consistent footy and stay injury free, every time I am injured I feel I have to start again,” he explained. He is also finding his voice amongst the playing group which is one of the youngest in the competition. “Last couple of years I have been the quiet one, talking wasn’t a big thing for me but I have worked on it.” Long-term Kikau said he’d like to stay at Penrith and knows what he needs to do for that to happen, but he understands rugby league is a business and he can only control his own performance. “That’s the plan (to stay at Penrith) – you just have to keep your head down. That’s how I see it myself personally,”
Photo: Panthers media
he said. “I just need to perform. I don’t want to look at the sight of money, I just want to perform well and I think those things fall into place when you play well.” Despite playing Canterbury this week Kikau has got his eyes on the round three rematch against Melbourne at Panthers Stadium, and he has called on the members and fans to turn up in big numbers. “Come back again for the rematch,” he said.
Photo: Greg Yanda
“We really need the Panthers fans and the Panthers flags at Panthers stadium again for that game and all the games this year.”
Photo: Greg Yanda
PENRITH PANTHERS
mark with MARK GEYER
Panthers 2021 begins brightly A s a new year commences in the NRL, the Penrith Panthers have started with what must feel like an ominous show for all the other clubs, and taking up where they’d left off. In downing the Cowboys 24-0 at home, winning their 10th straight win at Penny Park, the mountain men barely got out of third gear. Granted the opposition didn’t put up any real fight, but for the very first game of the new year the Panthers were on-point. The current crop of Panthers will have to get used to the constant comparisons to our 1991 team throughout season 2021. In 1990 we lost the grand final to the Raiders, the following year we beat the Raiders in grand final. Ivan’s men lost last year’s final game and are amongst the favourites to take out this year’s main prize. It’s also the 30th year anniversary since the ‘91 team lifted the holy grail. They say you have to lose one (grand final) to win one but I don’t necessarily agree with that. I’m more of the opinion that every team gets a “window of opportunity” to win the comp. Ours back then was from 1988 onwards when we acquired Peter Kelly and Chris Mortimer from the successful Bulldogs. They taught we young local juniors what it took to be ‘winners’ and we lapped up every word and action they threw our way. We just weren’t ready in 1990. Because we’d actually made it to the grand final for the first time in our club’s existence, we partied in Penrith like we’d already won the bloody thing. Civic receptions, street parades, keys to the city.... we weren’t showing the grand final the respect it deserved. In 1991 we did the exact opposite and prevailed. The 2021 version of the Panthers have got everything. Size, speed, skill, and youth. Naturally the comparisons are going to be made, and why shouldn’t they? We are all a part of the same brotherhood and we all love to see the famous jersey being flown high. The 2003 team were also compared to the ‘91 squad. But Johnny Lang’s boys didn’t have to lose one to win one. I know it’s only early days and the competition is a marathon, not a sprint. But as for making a statement in round
2021 has started with that ‘grand’ feeling
1 of the new season, the Panthers couldn’t have been more overt with their message to all opponents! See you at the game.
MG (random Westie) OAM
www.panthers.com.au
47 Nepean News 19 March 2021 Issue 299
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