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Thursday, 30 April 2020

ISSUE 276

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Thumbs up

“Thumbs up to Penrith CBD businesses. Thank you for staying open, for adapting to change and showing great innovation. I encourage our community to support local businesses over the coming months. Let’s all do what we can to help one another,” said Mayor Ross Fowler launching the Thumbs Up campaign with Penrith CBD

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local news

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nimals are great companions, especially during times of high stress. If you’re interested in adopting a dog or cat during this time, please remember that pets are not temporary, they’re for life. Make sure you adopt a pet that you can look after when you return to your normal routine. Council’s Animal Services team plays a vital role in keeping our City safe and promoting

responsible pet ownership. All cats and dogs must be microchipped and registered, under the Companion Animals Act 1998, and this also helps them be returned home to you if they get lost. The Hawkesbury Companion Animal Shelter is located at 10 Mulgrave Road, Mulgrave NSW 2756. Opening Hoursare by appointment only Phone: (02) 4560 4644 / Fax: (02) 4577 6604 companionanimal@hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au

Nepean News 30 April 2020 Issue 276

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Ph: 9833 1122 154 Queen Street, St Marys londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au

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From the Editor’s Desk

Nepean News 30 April 2020 Issue 276

203 Banks Drive, St Clair Office: (02) 9834 5579 Editor: Sales Manager: Sales: Sales: Journalist: Sports Editor: Journalist: Journalist: Graphic Design: Printer: Letters to the Editor: Web:

Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644 Korena Hale 0403 045 880 Larry Davis 0432 062 643 David Burnet 0412 448 883 Noel Rowsell 0424 007 202 Dale “Tex” Walker 0411 627 113 Conner Lowe 0404 419 346 Stewart Moses 0417 680 533 Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893 Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown nepeannews@aol.com issuu.com/nepeannews

Nepean News is not tossed onto your front lawn. Collect your crisp copy FREE from local newsagents, service stations, libraries, Council and shopping centres. Call 9834 5579 to find out your nearest outlet. Phone for complete list of distribution outlets

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By KeRRIE DAVIES

Driveway Dawn Service for ANZAC Day Before dawn on ANZAC Day I went to cover the story on page 10 of this issue. As I drove back home through the streets around 6am, the level of patriotism brought tears to the eyes. Driveway Dawn Service had a massive turnout. So very proud to be Australian. Lest We Forget.

COVIDSafe app now ready to download With most restrictions still in place, it does appear that we are doing a great job as a country in tackling this pandemic. And with that, some hope of returning to normalcy is starting to materialise. But let’s not dive in too quick - a combined effort is needed to keep this thing under control. Sadly through the infected nursing homes and cruise ships we’ve seen how one case quickly multiplies to dozens and hundreds. The COVIDSafe app is now ready to download. The entire focus of the app is to be able to trace contact with positive cases quickly. It is not so that the government can spy on you. There are lots of people saying ‘no way’ to taking part in this. But it is interesting to see where most of the noise is coming from.. you got it, facebook. You know, that place where people display their birthday, where they live, where they go, who they see and even what they eat. Here’s a newsflash from Captain Obvious: the government can also access facebook. If they had any interest in tracking what you’re up to they’ve probably already done so. So let’s be sensible about this. We all want this thing to get under control. The government needs approximately 40 per cent of the people to download the app for it to be effective, and I’ll be one person who’ll contribute towards that percentage. More information about the app is on page 8 of this issue.

local news

By KeRRIE DAVIES

#Thumbs Up for staying positive, staying open, and adapting; that’s the message from a new campaign by Penrith CBD Corp for local businesses. Huge thumbs up to Penrith businesses! “I’ve been looking around, checking how business is doing during these unprecedented times,” Gai Hawthorn, Penrith CBD Corp CEO said. “CBD Corp had to adapt quickly to assist small business, which of course lead to the bigger question, ‘how is everyone else doing”’ “We looked at social media platforms like Facebook and saw how amazing and resilient our community is! “Most are adapting to change which is hard, as we all know. I’m so proud and appreciative of the way businesses are staying positive during these times. “We thought okay, we can’t shake hands, we can’t meet or hold a meeting in the traditional ways but we can give a big Thumbs Up for staying open, adapting to change, reinventing how we do business and pushing through. “Yes business is down and we thank the government and property owners for working together as together we will make a difference.”

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Stuart Ayres MP Member for Penrith Many businesses have battled on through the restriction period. They’ve looked at what they can do within the rules, made some changes and adapted the way they do things to ensure they’re still able to deliver a great service. Cafes and restaurants have changed their menus to takeaway, and some had only just opened their doors in April. “I’m so proud of what this great community can do when challenged. Council have the Thursday night live feeds for music and everyone is keeping connected which is so important, “ Gai said. “We can’t encourage locals enough to consider picking up the phone for delivery or come in to any of the local businesses who are able to trade if they need an essential service. “Continue to remember our businesses whether open or closed, and thumbs up everyone!” Gai said.

Phone: 4722 8660 Email: penrith@parliament.nsw.gov.au Shop 23, Tattersalls Centre, 510-534 High Street, Penrith

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 30 April 2020 Issue 276

Thumbs Up Penrith businesses

Nepean News 30 April 2020 Issue 276

local news

MAYDAY! MAYDAY! Have a Cuppa and save lives CareFlight has launched an online social event to raise much-needed funds during social distancing

his May, CareFlight is launching its national inaugural MAYDAY event to promote the lifesaving difference its aeromedical services make to communities all across Australia. For the first MAYDAY, the charitable organisation is asking us to answer CareFlight’s MAYDAY call to raise funds and spread awareness for its critical regional and remote community education programs. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, CareFlight is inviting us to stay home and participate in the online social event. Throughout the month of May, we are invited to have a Cuppa For CareFlight, make a donation online and take our best selfie with our favourite mug. Even though many important activities are on hold, CareFlight’s mission to save lives, speed recovery and serve the community continues throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. CareFlight General Manager Fundraising and Community Engagement, Trent Osborn, said the team is taking every precaution to ensure lifesaving operations that are

funded by the community continue without disruption. “During the current COVID-19 crisis, CareFlight has had to adapt the way we raise funds as many fundraising activities, events and community engagements have been cancelled resulting in a funding shortfall of up to $2 million for the next financial year,” Mr Osborn said. “While many Australians are going through unprecedented hardship, we are still encouraging the community to take a selfie and join our online event to raise awareness and support for CareFlight. No matter the size of your donation, you can be saving lives and improving health outcomes

in your local community.” One-time CareFlight patient Cooper Appleyard is pictured with his girlfriend Claudia having a Cuppa For CareFlight for MAYDAY. CareFlight’s team flew to help save Cooper when his heart stopped due to a rare genetic condition in 2017. Today Cooper is alive and well thanks to the team. Cooper said he is proud support CareFlight’s mission to save more lives. “I would encourage all Australians’ to have a Cuppa For CareFlight in May and to get behind this great cause”. We can participate in CareFlight’s virtual event throughout the month of

May by doing the following: Take a selfie or video with your Cuppa For CareFlight Post your photo or video on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or LinkedIn to join our online social community. Let us know in your caption where you are and how you’re going! Tag @MyCareFlight on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter to appear on our MAYDAY wall and join our online community and hashtag #CuppaForCareFlight Make a donation to CareFlight to help fund our lifesaving MediSim trauma care workshops at www.CareFlight.org/MAYDAY/

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his Starlight Day, Friday 1 May, Starlight Children’s Foundation needs your help to raise $1.3 million to deliver happiness to more than 33,000 seriously ill and hospitalised children both locally and around Australia. As Starlight’s biggest national fundraising event, Starlight Day aims to raise much-needed funds to support sick kids through its hospital services - the Starlight Express Room and Captain Starlight. With a Starlight Express Room in every children’s hospital in Australia and over 180 Captain Starlights nationally, every child admitted to hospital, regardless of their illness or injury, can access these vital services with their family. CEO of Starlight Children’s Foundation, Louise Baxter, said: “Happiness is critical to a sick child’s development and to building resilience. The work Starlight does to support sick kids in every children’s hospital nationally is only made possible through the community, who we rely on for support.

“Being seriously ill shouldn’t mean missing out on the fun of childhood, especially when evidence shows happiness helps kids bounce back after going through tough times.” “While health professionals treat the serious illness, Starlight, through its hospital services (Captain Starlight and the Starlight Express Room) is there to deliver fun to sick kids and their families when they need it most.” Anyone can make a donation today on the Starlight Day website, with all donations made before midnight AEST Friday 1 May generously doubled by Starlight’s corporate partners. To donate today, please visit starlightday.org.au.

It was International Guide Dog Day yesterday, and Guide Dogs Australia are saying an extraspecial thanks to their wonderful Guide Dogs for the life changing work they continue to do amid unprecedented global challenges. Guide Dog Day was created to celebrate the important role Guide Dogs play in helping people with low vision or blindness lead safe and independent lives, and this year it takes on a new meaning. It’s clear that the comfort and companionship a Guide Dog provides has never been more

essential for, or cherished by Guide Dog Handlers. “The Coronavirus pandemic has understandably presented challenges to us as an organisation but the welfare of Guide Dogs Clients and our dogs is always our number one priority, so we’ve simply had to find ways to solve these challenges,” said Dale Cleaver, CEO. “This has meant supporting clients through phone calls, video conferences, email and social media, while our trainers have been busy setting up obstacle courses at our campuses, or training dogs from home, so they can continue getting our Guide Dogs-in-training ready to change lives. “It’s not been easy, but we’ve made it work, and for that I extend a heartfelt thank you to all Guide Dogs team members and volunteers. “Recent weeks have also been a chance to dig into the community spirit we’ve been building into our organisation over more than 60 years, so I want to thank everyone who has extended their support to Guide Dogs and helped us continue our work during this very difficult time.”

Nepean News 30 April 2020 Issue 276

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Nepean News 30 April 2020 Issue 276

local news

New government app ready for downloading

he COVIDSafe app is part of the government’s work to slow the spread of COVID-19. Having confidence we can find and contain outbreaks quickly will mean governments can ease restrictions while still keeping Australians safe. The new COVIDSafe app is completely voluntary. Downloading the app is something you can do to protect you, your family and friends and save the lives of other Australians. The more Australians connect to the COVIDSafe app, the quicker we can find the virus. What COVIDSafe is for The COVIDSafe app helps find close contacts of COVID-19 cases. The app helps state and territory health officials to quickly contact people who may have been exposed to COVID-19. The COVIDSafe app speeds up the current manual process of finding people who have been in close contact with someone with COVID-19. This means you’ll be contacted more quickly if you are at risk. This reduces the chances of you passing on the virus to your family, friends and other people in the community. State and territory health officials can only access app information if someone tests positive and agrees

to the information in their phone being uploaded. The health officials can only use the app information to help alert those who may need to quarantine or get tested. The COVIDSafe app is the only contact trace app approved by the Australian Government. How COVIDSafe works When you download the app you provide your name, mobile number, and postcode and select your age range (see Privacy). You will receive a confirmation SMS text message to complete installation. The system then creates a unique encrypted reference code just for you. COVIDSafe recognises other devices with the COVIDSafe app installed and Bluetooth enabled. When the app recognises another user, it notes the date, time, distance and duration of the contact and the other user’s reference code. The COVIDSafe app does not collect your location. To be effective, you should have the COVIDSafe app running as you go about your daily business and come into contact with people. Users will receive daily notifications to ensure the COVIDSafe app is running. The information is encrypted and that encrypted identifier is stored

securely on your phone. Not even you can access it. The contact information stored in people’s mobiles is deleted on a 21-day rolling cycle. This period takes into account the COVID-19 incubation period and the time it takes to get tested. For more, see Privacy. When an app user tests positive for COVID-19 When someone is diagnosed with COVID-19, state and territory health officials will ask them or their parent/ guardian who they have been in contact with. If they have the COVIDSafe app and provide their permission, the encrypted contact information from the app will be uploaded to a highly secure information storage system. State and territory health officials will then: • use the contacts captured by the app to support their usual contact tracing • call people to let them or their parent/guardian know they may have been exposed • offer advice on next steps, including: - what to look out for - when, how and where to get tested - what to do to protect friends and family from exposure Health officials will not name the person who was infected.

After the pandemic At the end of the Australian COVID-19 pandemic, users will be prompted to delete the COVIDSafe app from their phone. This will delete all app information on a person’s phone. The information contained in the information storage system will also be destroyed at the end of the pandemic. Deleting the COVIDSafe app You can delete the COVIDSafe app from your phone at any time. This will delete all COVIDSafe app information from your phone. The information in the secure information storage system will not be deleted immediately. It will be destroyed at the end of the pandemic. If you would like your information deleted from the storage system sooner, you can complete our request data deletion form. Privacy Your information and privacy is strictly protected. Read the COVIDSafe Privacy Policy for details on how personal information collected in the app is handled. A Privacy Impact Assessment was commissioned to ensure that privacy risks have been addressed.

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local COLUMNIST

ave you ever found yourself needing a veterinarian after hours or found yourself unable to leave the house due to current self-isolating restrictions? Or do you need to just chat with a veterinarian to put your mind at ease until the following day? Greencross Vets are now offering WebVet consultations for times just like these. What is WebVet? WebVet allows you to have a video consultation with one of our Veterinarians when you are experiencing a problem with your pet and you find

yourself unable to travel to your local Greencross Vet clinic. How does it work? A Greencross WebVet is now available 24/7. The team will assess your pet via video, take notes of your pet’s problem and the advice provided to share with your local Greencross Vet, ensuring continuity of care where needed. 1. Choose to speak to our vets via video call. You will enter our ‘virtual’ waiting room so please keep your pet nearby as one of our vets will soon be online to speak with you. 2. Pay for your vet consultation securely online. You will receive a prompt to pay for your consult via a secure and trusted gateway. You may use credit or debit card for payment.

3. Receive the advice you need from our friendly vets. We’ll discuss your pet’s current situation and history in order to provide you with advice and next steps for your pet’s wellbeing. What is the cost of the consultation? Video consultations are $39.50 for a standard consultation of 15 to 20 minutes. If you need to see a vet in person, an appointment with your local Greencross Vet clinic can be arranged or a referral to one of our partner emergency and specialist hospitals. The $39.50 fee will be deducted from the cost of this consultation if undertaken within 48 hours. Who is performing the consultation? You can have peace of mind knowing that you are speaking to experienced Australian veterinarians working within our Greencross national network of 167 local General Practice Veterinary clinics, Animal Referral Hospitals and Animal Emergency Centres across Australia. For our Penrith clients, an email of the consultation notes will be emailed to Greencross Vet Coreen Ave where a follow-up appointment or phone call can be made. If you require any further information follow the links from our website www.greencrossvets.com.au or phone Greencross Vet Coreen Ave 02 4731 3055.

Nepean News 30 April 2020 Issue 276

WebVet Consultations

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

Can you help reunite these pets with their families? When a pet goes missing it is a particularly distressing time for any owner. And by the look on the faces of some of these local pets who’ve been found, it can be pretty distressing for the pet as well. Have you seen any of our missing pets? Do you recognise any of the pets who have been found? There’s a facebook page called Penrith Area Lost and Found Animals and they are exceptionally good at reuniting lost pets with their owners. If you have any information regarding any of our featured pets, please head to the page and scroll for the owner’s information. Alternatively, if you don’t use facebook feel free to call us on 9834 5579 and we will hook you up!

MISSING

Max from South Penrith

FOUND Sth Penrith

MISSING Ruby from Llandilo

FOUND Jordan Springs

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MISSING

Coby from Cranebrook

Nepean News 30 April 2020 Issue 276

local news › Man falls two metres from roof (Leonay)

Surprise tribute for local ex-serviceman

On Tuesday a 64-year-old man has fallen two metres from the roof of his Leonay residence and sustained a potential head injury and fractures to his lower body and pelvis. It is understood that the man was on a ladder doing maintenance on the roof. CareFlight’s Rapid Response Helicopter was tasked at 12:15pm and landed less than 15 minutes later in a golf course by the scene of the incident where NSW Ambulance paramedics were providing initial treatment. CareFlight’s specialist doctor and NSW Ambulance critical care paramedic assessed the patient’s condition and prepared him for transport to hospital. The man was taken by road ambulance in a stable condition to Westmead Hospital under ongoing observation from CareFlight’s clinical team.

t Clair resident, James Law is an 88 year old navy Veteran. He served in Malaysia and has marched on ANZAC Day for the last two decades. This year, with the changes in place for tackling the pandemic, there was of course no march. Mr Law’s daughter Raelene said her Dad had been pretty heartbroken over the last three years following the loss of his wife of 62 years, Joan, but when she popped in to visit recently she noticed he was looking a bit sadder than usual. “Dad lives alone and we are a close knit family so we like to keep a check on him,” Raelene said. “I noticed he was looking a bit down and then we spoke about how he was not able to march this year on ANZAC Day, a very important day to him and one he has always looked forward to. “I suggested he acknowledge ANZAC Day by standing at the end of his driveway, but he was a bit hesitant and unsure whether he’d do it. I asked him if he’d like me to come and stand too, and his response was, ‘oh would you do that?’” “Dad’s street is a cul-de-sac, so with the help of his next door neighbour, we contacted all the neighbours and asked if they’d like to take part in surprising him on ANZAC Day morning by all standing with a candle.”

By KeRRIE DAVIES

The neighbours jumped at the opportunity to honour the ex-serviceman on the most important day of the year to him. At 6am on ANZAC Day, as Raelene walked her father down the driveway dressed in his suit and medals, he was absolutely gobsmacked to see all his neighbours and family members holding their candles and waiting for him. The Ode and the Last Post were played and Mr Law said the day “was very special.” “Thank you all for doing this,” he said to the group, who all stood with social distance measurement between them. Raelene said her Dad is still talking about the special moment when he looked down the driveway to the street. “I just can’t stop thinking about how special that day was,” Mr Law said. “It made my year!”

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Nepean News 30 April 2020 Issue 276

local news

Slight easing of restrictions from May 1

he NSW Government has announced an update on COVID-19 restrictions and how our schools and retail outlets will look for the month of May. There will be three key changes that will take effect across NSW next month: 1. From Friday, 1 May up to two adults and their dependent children will be allowed to visit another household. 2. We will see a return of face-to-face teaching from 11 May, and then will consider accelerating a full return to school as soon as possible. 3. There have never been restrictions in NSW on what people can and cannot buy, however there may be increased retail activity, with some businesses choosing to re-open. It is important these shops maintain social distancing and hygiene requirements. NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said this update on visits to households has been made to reduce social isolation and improve mental health. “It extends the existing guidelines of being able to leave home for ‘care or medical purposes’,” Ms Berejiklian said. “The two adults need not be related. “The last thing any of us want to see is a huge spike in cases. “We need anyone with even the mildest of symptoms anywhere in NSW to stay home and come forward for testing.” There is no limit on how far you can travel within NSW so long as you respect the rules and the reason is consistent with one of the four categories for leaving home.

It is important when visiting another household social distancing is maintained and extra hygiene precautions are taken. When visiting, meeting in an outdoor environment such as home garden, backyard or verandah will help reduce the risk. If you are visiting those aged over 70 or those with underlying health conditions we are urging you to be extra vigilant with social distancing and

hygiene measures. It is also important to remember that you do not visit anyone if you or they are unwell, even if you have mild symptoms like fatigue or a scratchy throat. The two-person gathering limit still applies to public places. For the latest information on COVID-19 please go to nsw.gov.au/covid-19.

Overcrowded trains a risk as restrictions ease

NSW Auditor General’s report shows overcrowding on Sydney’s trains is a major health concern at a time when COVID-19 restrictions are being eased and people are returning to work. The Auditor General found Sydney metropolitan trains are increasingly crowded, leading to inhibited movement, discomfort and increased health and safety risks. As the social isolation measures implemented in response to COVID-19 are eased, up to a million daily riders may soon be back crowding on to Sydney’s trains. The report identifies the impact this overcrowding has on passenger health: “Sydney Trains risk rating acknowledges that overcrowding can

impact the safety and health of staff and customers by causing illness, injuries or fatalities.”

Labor’s Shadow Minister for Transport Chris Minns said the precautions must be taken to prevent

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overcrowding on trains causing a flare up in COVID-19 infections. “We need a clear and comprehensive plan to ensure social distancing continues on public transport, and this plan needs to be in place before we all return to work,” Mr Minns said. “Employers should stagger the start times of their employees. Hand sanitisers should be installed at major city stations. We need strict rules around where a commuter should stand or sit on a train or station.” “These preventative measures have been employed with some success around the world, and we need them here now.” “Now is the time to implement a plan to mitigate exposure to COVID19 through the transport system. Waiting for Sydneysiders to return to work will be too late.”

local news

he Federal Member for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh MP convened a teleconference meeting with the Minister for Education and local school principals this week to discuss the response to the Coronavirus pandemic, the first meeting of its kind in Australia. “In New South Wales, schools are starting to head back this week and there was a great turnout of local school principals in our community. The Minister for Education and I know it is important to keep in touch with our local schools, to discuss some of the issues and answer any questions they may have. It’s wonderful that in Lindsay, we have initiated the first of this kind of meeting in Australia,” said Ms McIntosh. “We discussed supporting local students, social distancing measures and how schools can prepare and adapt during the pandemic. It’s encouraging to see that we had representatives from public schools, catholic schools and the independent school sector and I want to thank our principals for taking the time out of their busy schedule to meet with the Minister and myself. “Cambridge Park High School asked the Minister what the Government’s advice is to schools

located in hot spots such as Penrith. The Minister advised that unless there is a positive case within the school community, it is safe for students to attend school, however the NSW Government may have a more localised response based on the official health advice they have. “St Paul’s Grammar School asked a question in relation to social

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distancing advice for students. The Minister advised our principals that while the advice provided on social distancing is not necessary for primary school students, where possible high school students should be encouraged to adhere to social distancing measures in schools. “The Minister highlighted that one of the remarkable outcomes

to come from this pandemic is that many families and parents are recognising even more the important role our teachers and schools play and the contribution they make for our children’s education. I join the Minister in thanking and recognising our wonderful local school community and our teachers and principals,” said Ms McIntosh.

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Nepean News 30 April 2020 Issue 276

Local school Principals join in teleconference

Nepean News 30 April 2020 Issue 276

local news

The heartbreaking tragedy at By KeRRIE DAVIES

he tragedy continues to unfold at Newmarch House at Caddens, with 13 fatalities now recorded at the centre. The outbreak at the facility has also seen another three residents test positive in the last 24 hours. There are now 59 positive cases; 37 residents and 22 staff members. Anglicare Sydney release the following statement on the morning of May 1: “Anglicare Sydney is deeply saddened to advise of the death of a resident at Newmarch House on the afternoon of Thursday 30 April who had tested positive for COVID-19. The family has been contacted as have all the relevant authorities. This is a time of great grief for the family and we want to extend our deepest sympathies. The Coronavirus has had a devastating impact on all our residents and families as well as our staff over the last three weeks. We are very appreciative of the support being provided by the Commonwealth and NSW Governments and by the sector more broadly. In addition and as advised yesterday, through further testing another three residents at Newmarch House have been identified as positive with COVID-19. This is despite us having strict procedures and enforced infection control practices in place. You will appreciate this is further distressing news. These new cases may reflect historical transmissions and reflect the rigorous and ongoing testing at Newmarch House. We will be investigating further how this has occurred. On a more positive note, as our communication with residents is improving we have been able to turn more attention to communicating with families, and window-visits are proving successful. We are looking at ways to further improve our communications and pastoral care to both residents and families. Given the experience from other aged care sites that have had an outbreak of COVID-19 both here and overseas, it is very likely we will be dealing with the devastating impacts of this virus for some weeks to come.” Following some substantial criticism, Grant Millard, CEO of Anglicare Sydney, has reached out to the families of the residents to try to facilitate some communication with their loved ones. “We would love the relatives of our residents to visit their loved ones at Newmarch House. We are

allowing families of those in palliative care some access under strict controls, however, for others we simply cannot afford the risk of further spreading COVID-19. This is a really hard decision for us to make but the consequences of a further outbreak are too awful to contemplate,” Mr Millard said. “We are now able to arrange for some family members to talk to their loved ones through a window-visit. “Anglicare Sydney made the difficult decision on 23 March to lockdown all our homes for the safety and health of our residents during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Unfortunately, the virus entered Newmarch. Mr Millard also acknowledged that some of the negative dialogue directed at the aged care facility was warranted. “There has been criticism that Anglicare Sydney has not been communicating with families. To an extent this is true. We have been under extreme pressure,” Mr Millard said. “For instance – to maintain social isolation while providing care it takes our staff at least five times as long to undertake a simple task like giving a COVID-19 resident a phone to make a phonecall because of the need to put on and take off the PPE and clean up. “However, since the outbreak on Easter Sunday, we have made sure we send one email a day to families of our residents at Newmarch House. “And for every one of our residents who is sadly COVID-19 positive, we have been in regular phone contact, mostly at least once a day, with that resident’s chosen representative – the ‘person responsible.’ “It is very hard, we know, when others in the families are worried about the health of their mother or father, but unfortunately we can only communicate directly with the persons that our residents, or in some circumstances their guardians, have approved.” Mr Millard said the staff at Newmarch House were under a lot of pressure. “It’s hard to imagine the pressure the staff who are working at Newmarch must be under as they struggle to preserve life and give comfort to the people in their care,” he said. “They are doing an exceptional job and we thank them for this. “Everyone is under incredible pressure. We really encourage people to allow our staff to do the best they can under extreme circumstances.

“We are having to prioritise our communications amongst our other obligations. Our first priority has been the support and comfort we give our residents. Now, as well as that, we are able to communicate more with families, for instance, by scheduling window-visits. “Newmarch House continues to manage the COVID-19 outbreak with strong support from the Commonwealth and NSW Governments.” Meanwhile, the NSW Labor Opposition has called on NSW Liberal Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Health Minister Brad Hazzard to take control of the crisis in NSW aged care facilities. “Even though the crisis caused by the spread of COVID-19 in NSW aged care facilities has been raging for more than nineteen days, it was revealed this week that Health Minister Brad Hazzard only made contact with the Federal Minister for Ageing last night and that Premier Berejiklian has not yet spoken with the Prime Minister about these serious matters,” said NSW Labor Leader Jodi McKay. Ms McKay said many families with loved ones at Newmarch House and at other aged care facilities have expressed concerns that they have little oversight of the standard of care their loved ones are receiving. “Gladys Berejiklian and Brad Hazzard cannot try and evade responsibility here. We have seen that 95 percent of COVID cases in aged care facilities have occurred in NSW. This is a NSW issue. “Why did it take 19 days for Brad Hazzard to pick up the phone and talk to his Federal counterpart? Lives are at risk here, the community expects to see action from the government, not delays. “Why have 10 out of the 11 deaths that have occurred at Newmarch House not occurred in a hospital environment? We keep on hearing from the Premier that we have ICU capacity, that we have ventilators. Why aren’t these facilities being offered to residents and their families?” “Just weeks after the Ruby Princess crisis we are again seeing vulnerable people and their families fall through the cracks because of the breakdown in the demarcation between NSW and the Federal Government. This has got to stop. The Premier has to take control.” NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklan said aged care facilities were being discussed at National Cabinet. “It’s very apparent that different aged care operators have, are applying different standards. And that’s why I loudly welcome the fact that

A sad message from Nepean Food Services It is with great sadness that we inform you that our friend and great contributor to Nepean Food Services; Jacqui Glynn passed away peacefully on Saturday morning 25 April 2020, surrounded by much loved family. Jacqui had been a part of our

organisation for ten years and was passionate in providing unparalleled support to clients, volunteers and fellow colleagues alike. Nepean Food Services will forever be a better organisation for having her involvement. Her passion, care, determination and commitment

resulted in benefits to the organisation that will last forever and many individuals that were fortunate enough to interact with her along the way. A legacy that will be honoured in a future memorial service. Our most heartfelt condolences and sympathies to Jacqui’s family.

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National Cabinet is considering a code of contact across the nation for our aged care facilities,” Ms Berejiklian said. The Premier said it was a horrible set of circumstances. “I can’t imagine what it would be like being a

family member of a resident in that aged care centre at the moment - from what I understand, things have slightly improved in the last few days in terms of communication. “But I warmly and loudly welcome the issue of a national code of conduct, which will be discussed

National Cabinet today (May 1). Around the nation aged care operators need to step up because we know this virus, particularly has horrific circumstances to people who are aged and have underlying conditions. And there’s no doubt it has had a huge impact on this facility.”

Statement from Lindsay MP Melissa McIntosh “Last night (April 30) I facilitated a teleconference meeting between family members of Newmarch House residents and the Minister for Aged Care, Senator the Hon Richard Colbeck, and the Aged Care and Quality Commissioner Janet Anderson, so that family members could have the opportunity to share their concerns and have questions addressed directly by the Minister and the Commissioner. “The health and wellbeing of people in our community is my utmost priority. We are all deeply saddened by the coronavirus outbreak

at Newmarch House and the impact on residents, families and friends, and staff. “In advance of this call, I have been in regular contact with families to make sure they have all the latest information from the Health and Aged Care Ministers’ offices, and I know both the Australian and NSW Governments are fully committed to the welfare of the residents of Newmarch House. I speak with Ministers daily in representing the concerns and questions of our community and advocating for the best outcomes for both families and

residents of Newmarch. This is my important role as the local member of parliament. “A webinar was hosted last week by Anglicare with families, the Commonwealth, NSW Health and the Federal Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission to help improve the flow of information to families. The Older Persons Advocacy Network also held a meeting this week with families and the Government has asked the Network to help continue to improve communication between the facility and families. “This week I have spoken with the

CEO of Anglicare about COVIDsafe measures to increase connection between residents and their families, such as the introduction of windowvisits, as the families had requested, and he advised these are now in place and being facilitated by the facility. “I want to thank Newmarch family members for taking part in last night’s meeting and being so open in sharing your stories in this extremely hard time for you and your loved ones. I also thank the Minister for Aged Care, and Aged Care Commissioner for working closely with me and our frontline health workers and carers.”

Aqua Golf has reopened! In accordance with the Australian and NSW Government guidelines, the driving range at Aqua Golf will be reopening on April 29. Aqua Golf is a driving range that is the perfect activity for all ages, all-weather and no golf experience is necessary. You will enjoy spectacular views of the Blue Mountains and the Panthers Rugby League Academy as you tee off across the glistening water. Located at Panthers Penrith, parking is free. Call Us: 02 4720 5556 | Check us out on our Facebook Page Aqua Golf Temporary Changes. As a business, we wanted to openly share additional

measures we are taking to protect our customers and staff during these uncertain times. Our staff will regularly undertake cleaning within our facility with special attention being made to golf bays, hire clubs and golf balls throughout the day. Hand sanitiser is encouraged to be used before and after entry into our facility. Card payment is encouraged. All golf bays are 2.2 metres apart. Social Distancing management in place to easily (or better) manage the number of people in our facility with security guards. New line markers have been put in installed to

direct patrons where to stand in order to manage social distancing. The use of benches and tables will no longer be accessible for use due to social distancing measures. We are closely monitoring and implementing the government guidelines by keeping healthy distances and limits for social gatherings. We thank you for your continued support during these challenging times and look forward to welcoming you back to Aqua Golf at Panthers soon. Open Hours – New times Monday to Thursday: 12 pm to 6pm Friday to Sunday: 12 pm to 8pm

Nepean News 30 April 2020 Issue 276

Newmarch House continues

Nepean News 30 April 2020 Issue 276

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Massive turnout for Driveway Dawn Service Restrictions in place meant a big change in how we honoured our defence forces past and present this ANZAC Day. With no services where crowds would normally gather to pay their respects, residents wanting to honour the occasion instead stood at the end of their driveway at 6am. Lest We Forget.

Charges laid after pedestrian killed â€“ Leonay A man has been charged after a pedestrian was hit and killed by a car earlier this week. Emergency services were called to River Road, Leonay about 4.30pm on Tuesday 28 April, after reports a woman had been hit by a car. On arrival officers found a 63-yearold woman on the roadway deceased.

Police will allege the vehicle crossed onto the wrong side of the road before it mounted the curb and hit the pedestrian. The 25-year-old male driver of a silver Kia Rio was spoken to by police before being taken to Nepean Hospital for mandatory tests. Officers attached to Nepean Police

Area Command established a crime scene, and the Crash Investigation Unit commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. Following inquiries, the man was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station, where he was charged with dangerous driving occasioning death

- drive manner dangerous, negligent driving (occasioning death), not keep left of dividing line, and possession of prohibited drugs. He was refused bail and has appeared before Penrith Local Court. Anyone who may have witnessed the incident, or who may have dashcam vision, is urged to contact police.

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enrith City Council is inviting non-profit organisations and community groups to apply for small grants through the annual Community Assistance Program (CAP) to deliver activities or projects that strengthen the community, address community needs and improve opportunities for participation in Penrith City. Council recognises the challenges that community organisations and groups are facing at the moment. In response, we’re reorienting the latest CAP Grants round so groups can apply more easily and receive the funding sooner, to help community groups to adapt to current challenges. Community groups can use CAP Grants to: • stay connected and deliver programs differently • expand or adapt their services for new and growing needs, or • purchase resources or develop their skills. Applications for the 2020-21 CAP grants open at 9am on Monday 4 May and close at 3pm Tuesday 26 May 2020. Groups can apply for up to $1,200 per project. Now in its 26th year, Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM said that the program provided muchneeded support to the many local

Photo from last year

organisations that dedicate their time to running programs that strengthen our community and benefit residents. “This year, we’re making CAP faster, easier and more flexible to help community groups adapt to the current challenges,” Cr Fowler said. “Community groups and local non-

profits make a valuable contribution to our City and to the wellbeing of our residents.” Last year, 50 projects received a total of $40,435 in funding. These included programs to equip young people with basic living skills, clothing for job interviews or court cases for financially disadvantaged

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Nepean News 30 April 2020 Issue 276

Grants available for community groups in the Penrith area – is this you?

people, and IT equipment to provide older people with information on health, wellbeing, cultural heritage and safety. For more information on the Community Assistance Program, visit penrith.city/grants or contact Council on 4732 8532 or casey.holtom@ penrith.city.

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Nepean News 30 April 2020 Issue 276

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Police files Officers injured when HWP car struck by 4WD Two officers have been injured when their fully-marked Highway Patrol vehicle was hit while stopped on the side of a road in the Blue Mountains this week. The two officers were driving along Hawkesbury Road towards Springwood shortly before 5.30pm on Thursday 30 April, when they stopped a driver for the purposes of a roadside breath test. The driver allegedly returned a positive test and both officers were sitting in their HWP BMW, when they were hit from behind by a Land Rover Discovery, which then rolled. Both male officers sustained bruising and suspected neck injuries and have been taken to Nepean Hospital. The drivers of the first vehicle and the P-plate driver of the 4WD were not injured. The driver, who allegedly returned a positive RBT, has been arrested and taken to Springwood Police Station for the purposes of a breath analysis. Inquiries are continuing.

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Teens arrested after van tracked through several local suburbs Two youths are in police custody after a van was tracked through western Sydney Monday morning. A pursuit was initiated after a white Toyota Hiace van – which had been reported stolen from Toongabbie on 23 April 2020 – was seen travelling west on the Great Western Highway about 12:20am Monday 27 April. The Police Airwing were called and assisted tracking the van to St Marys and Kingswood, along The Northern Road through Jordan Springs and Llandilo to Richmond Road at Berkshire Park where road spikes were successfully deployed. The damaged van continued through Marayong onto the Quakers Parkway before the vehicle stopped in Pearce Road at Quakers Hill, where two boys, aged 15 and 17, were arrested with the assistance of a Dog Unit. They have now been taken to Blacktown Police Station. Police will allege the van reached speeds of up to 150 km/h and was – at times – driven on the wrong side of the Great Western Highway, Richmond Road and Quakers Parkway. Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report crime via NSW Police social media pages.

$1000 fine for non-essential visit About 11.20pm Sunday night, police attended a unit on Park Avenue, Kingswood, and spoke to a 36-year-old Werrington man and a 35-year-old St Marys woman. The pair allegedly told police they were at the location to visit two friends, who were the occupants of the unit. Checks revealed the man and woman had previously been issued warnings and the woman was issued a PIN last Wednesday (22 April 2020). They were subsequently issued $1000 PINs.

A doctor and two nurses allegedly spat at Nepean Hospital About 2pm (Sunday 26 April 2020), a 26-yearold woman was at Nepean Hospital seeking treatment, when she allegedly became aggressive towards staff. After threatening them, the woman then allegedly spat on two nurses, two women aged 26 and 34, and a 49-year-old female doctor. Officers from Nepean Police Area Command were notified and attended the hospital. The 26-year-old woman was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station, where she was charged with not comply noticed direction re spitting/ coughing – COVID19, and common assault. The Penrith woman was refused bail to appear at Penrith Local Court.

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enrith City Council is to be recognised as a leader in sustainable waste management on an upcoming episode of much-loved TV programme Gardening Australia. Penrith is the only Council in the Sydney Metropolitan area using the innovative and sustainable Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) system, which we implemented more than a decade ago. Gardening Australia presenter Costa Georgiadis is PCC’s Waste and Resource Recovery (WARR) Strategy Ambassador. Recently he met with our Resource Recovery Field Team to explore the benefits of FOGO; this was filmed for a segment on Gardening Australia and will air on Friday 1 May at 7:30pm on ABC. Costa came to Penrith to see how composting can be done on a large, society-wide scale. In the FOGO system, households can put food waste, kitchen scraps, garden clippings and other organic materials into your green-lidded bin. This could be as much as 60% of a household’s waste each week. To capture kitchen waste, Council supplies residents with a free a bench-top ‘kitchen tidy’ bin, and sends out compostable green bags to line them with four times a year. If you use all your green bags, no worries; more are available for free at Council service centres. “For more than a decade, Council has been diverting organic material away from landfill,” said Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM. “We are the only Council in Metropolitan Sydney using this forward-thinking system. Less organic material in landfill means less harmful C02 is released in to the atmosphere. That’s a

better outcome for our residents and for future generations.” “International Composting Awareness Week is coming up, from 4–8 May, so it’s the perfect time to remind residents about the benefits of this scheme,” continued Cllr Fowler. “We are well on track to reaching our goal of

Nepean News 30 April 2020 Issue 276

Penrith City Council recognised by Gardening Australia

diverting 70% of waste from landfill by 2021”, he concluded. Watch Costa and Penrith City Council’s waste team on Gardening Australia on Friday 1 May at 7:30pm on ABC, and on iView. Learn more about the FOGO waste system at penrith.city/OurPlace

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Nepean News 30 April 2020 Issue 276

NEPEAN HISTORY

Two Charlies

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

and in 1849 he was elected to the board of the newlyformed Sydney Tramway and Railroad Co., became its chairman and was appointed manager at £600 a ir Charles Cowper was born in 1807 at Dryford year. Also, in 1849 Charles persuaded the council to in Lancashire, England. He was the third son of condemn Grey’s proposal and when Grey ignored all William Cowper and his first wife Hannah, née protests Charles organized a large meeting in Sydney Horner. In 1809 Charles was brought to NSW by his in September 1850 at which the NSW Association for father, who had been appointed Assistant Chaplain. Preventing the Revival of Transportation was formed Charles was educated privately and at 18 years of with himself as chairman. The association recognized age he entered the Commissariat Department and in that transportation to Van Diemen’s Land as well as to 1826, appointed Secretary to the Church and Schools NSW must be abolished because convicts and former Land Corporation. As an official he was granted 1280 convicts could pass from Tasmania to the mainland acres in the County of Argyle in 1827 and a further and the council resolved that NSW should never again 1280 acres in 1830. By 1852 he had acquired by receive convicts and by this time free immigration grant or purchase, large estates in Argyle and town had revived and repugnance to transportation was allotments in Goulburn and as a tenant of the Crown no longer restrained by anxieties about labour. His he held nearly 20,000 acres in Argyle and 47,000  Photo of Sir Charles Cowper dual role as Chairman and Manager of the Sydney acres in the Lachlan pastoral district. He owned the courtesy of NSW Parliament. Tramway and Railroad Co provoked strong criticism, property Wivenhoe and 900 acres at Camden Park as so he resigned from the Legislative Council Board well as interests in the Sydney real estate. In 1831 he married Eliza the and gave his full time to the company to retain the Managership. By that second daughter of Daniel Sutton of “Wivenhoe” near Colchester in time as a Politician he had sat on eighty-three select committees and Essex. Two years later the Church and Schools Land Corporation was presided over twenty of them enduring many conflicts over his time in dissolved, and he declined another official post. Charles then farmed in politics and was appointed CMG in 1869 and KCMG in 1871. He died Argyle living as a country gentleman and interesting himself in sheep at Kensington in October 1875. His son, also Charles Cowper (Jnr) was breeding. He was appointed a justice of the peace in 1839. He presided born 1834 in Macquarie Place at Sydney and not long afterwards the at a public meeting in 1840 that condemned proposals made by W E family moved to Kirkham in Camden where he was sent to the school of Gladstone the Secretary of State for the colonies who wanted to revive his uncle William Macquarie Cowper at Stroud at the age of 9 years and transportation in a new form. A week later however, a select committee later attended The King’s School at Parramatta for a couple of years. At under William Charles Wentworth reported in favour of a limited age 17 he was sent by his father to manage “Burrabogie” station near return to transportation. In 1843 at the first elections under the new Hay (Burrabogie is said to be a compound aboriginal word meaning Constitution, Charles stood for the County of Camden, announcing that “Burra” quick and “bogie” swim). In 1855 Charles married Mary the his political principles were moderate and that he was a member of the daughter of Robert Copland Lethbridge of Penrith. In 1857 Charles was Church of England which bought him into conflict with the Macarthur appointed the first Honorary Secretary of the Goulburn Agricultural and family who were powerful in that electorate and supported Roger Therry Horticultural Society and in the late 1850s he spent some time on the a Roman Catholic. After a bitter contest Charles was defeated but won Kiandra goldfield where he set up a store on “New Chum Hill” and election for the County of Cumberland against James Macarthur. In the became a gold-buyer. He tried his hand at politics with various stints in Legislative Council Cowper established himself as a most active man the Tumut Legislative Assembly but resigned his seat in 1863. He stood of business. He had opposed district councils, advocated some parts of for Tumut again in 1864 and was elected but his seat was declared vacant the squatters’ case for land reform, argued against the financial powers in July 1866 as he was sick and absent for an entire session without of the executive, introduced bills for the registration of births, baptisms, leave. In 1869 Charles was offered the police magistracy at Bourke and marriages and burials, opposed the separation of the Port Phillip district, accepted on condition that he be transferred to Sydney when a vacancy maintained the exclusive right of the Church of England to establishment occurred there. He stayed at Bourke from June 1869 to May 1870 then in the colony (a view that he later abandoned) and supported church he took up the promised new appointment in Sydney as a water police schools so strongly that he became known as ‘Member for the Church of magistrate. He resigned in August 1874 to become sheriff of NSW, an England’. In September 1847 he moved that the report of Wentworth’s office he held until he retired in 1896. His wife had died in 1894 and in committee to revive transportation be disavowed and because some of 1898 at Sydney he married Amy Rose Clarissa Bramley. Charles died Wentworth’s supporters were absent in the country Charles’s motion at Beulah in Bowral in 1911 and was buried in the family vault at St was passed by 11 votes to 7. Later Earl Grey who was now the Paul’s Church, Cobbitty. He bequeathed most of his small estate to his Secretary of State again proposed to renew transportation in a revised daughter for devoting her life to mothering his grandchildren. form so in April 1848 the council accepted Grey’s proposals including the important safeguard that the convicts should be accompanied by Sources: John M Ward-“Cowper, Sir Charles Australian Dictionary of equal numbers of free immigrants at Britain’s expense, but Grey sent the Biography, National Centre of Biography, Australian National University, The Legislative Council of NSW-1843-1943, State Library of NSW, Daily Telegraph, convicts without the free immigrants. In 1848 Charles was chairman Sydney Morning Herald, Pamela Moore-“Charles’Cowper1834–1911, Trove. of the select committee that reported in favour of railways for NSW

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My old aunts would come and tease me at weddings, “Well Sarah? Do you think you’ll be next?” We’ve settled this quickly once I’ve started doing the same to them at funerals. I got another letter from the electricity company today. It said “Final Notice”. Good that they will not bother me anymore. Guest to the waiter: “Can you bring me what the lady at the next table is having?” Waiter: “Sorry, sir, but I’m pretty sure she wants to eat it herself.” Two elephants meet a totally naked guy. After a while one elephant says to the other: “I really don’t get how he can feed himself with that little thing!” I got all dewy eyed when I saw my husband looking at our marriage certificate for half an hour. Then I found out he’s been looking for an expiry date. The Queen takes the visiting dignitary for a ride in a carriage through London. Suddenly one of the horses farts very loudly. “I am terribly sorry,” apologises the embarrassed Queen. The dignitary replies, “Oh don’t worry, if you hadn’t said anything, I’d have thought it was the horse!”

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with Michael Creed

Quick and Easy Fish Pie Serves 6 Ingredients: 1kg potatoes 50g unsalted butter 100ml milk 150g grated cheddar cheese 300g salmon fillet, skinned and cut into bite size chunks 300g cod fillet, skinned and cut into bite size chunks 125g peeled raw prawns 150g frozen peas 300ml crème fraiche 2 tsp English or Dijon mustard Finely chopped parsley Sea salt and black pepper

21 Nepean News 30 April 2020 Issue 276

JOKES

local news

3. Drain the potatoes well then mash until smooth and stir in milk, cheese and butter to combine. 4. Put the remaining ingredients into a 2 litre casserole dish, stir together and season with salt and pepper. 5. Spoon the mashed potatoes over the top of the fish mixture then bake in the oven for 35-40 minutes or until the potato is Method: golden and crispy on top and 1. Preheat the oven to 200°C 2. Bring a large pan of salted water always check the fish is cooked through. to the boil, peel the potatoes, cut 7. Leave to cool for a few into even-sized chunks and boil minutes before serving. until tender.

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Coping with COVID-19 Kick-start Coping with Life Your Consciousness with hypnosis meditation/quantum healing - Free Tools for you! By Dr Muthukrishnan

ockdown, isolation, fear and frustration over the current situation – all these can also cause depression anxiety, separation anxiety, loneliness, claustrophobia and agoraphobia, helplessness et cetera, further bringing down our immunity and coping mechanism. Solution? When you have locked your doors and turned away from the world outside, now it’s time to turn inside to see the world within! There you’ll find all the strength and power you need at this crucial time. The tool to access this immense power within is meditation. Unfortunately meditation like hypnosis has a religious and mystical connotation quite undeservedly. It has nothing to do with any religion: it’s a powerful tool to tap into your subconscious mind and to access the power within for health and wellbeing, healing and energy, poise and peace of mind. Under the financial circumstances, many people, can’t afford the luxury

of online sessions. I have been in practice in Penrith/ Kingswood areas over the last 47 years and in fact through my seminars my clientele extends even across Australia Solution? I’ve decided to offer one of my e-books – which contains all the material you need for Hypno meditation and two actual MP3 soundtracks to guide you into this beautiful therapy sessions .The e-book called kick-start your consciousness is available on Amazon but I am offering it free of charge for anybody who could contact us with their mobile and email ID for the next one month. Please remember kick-start your consciousness is an amazingly powerful tool for personal transformation performance enhancement and healing. At this time of learning disturbance, this also will be very useful for students particularly year 10, 11 and 12 students. This is my gift to all of you. COVID-19 will soon go away, but this amazing life changing skill will remain with you forever. Enjoy the power. Contact us on (02) 4736 6900 or Email – rmoothoo@gmail.com

(Or how to awaken the power within) It is like fresh air. Everyone needs it; it is a genie that everyone can command! It is a powerful mini mind tool for personal transformation. Whether you are • a business magnate • an entrepreneurial guru • a spouse • a parent • a drug addict • a smoker • an alcoholic • a workaholic • a student • a nine to five career person • a professional • an athlete • an artist • a patient • the Prime Minister • the President • the King or Queen of a country

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Nepean News 30 April 2020 Issue 276

SPORT

Local golf’s high achievers By Noel Rowsell

oday and in following issues, we will be profiling some of the Nepean District’s finest male and female golfers, from juniors to veterans, covering their career highlights, choice of club manufacturer and fondest memory on the golf course. The first 2 players in our collection are both from Leonay GC and are from the opposite ends of the spectrum, in regards to both age and experience; One player (Laurie Cupples) is from the Veteran (Over 55) ranks and the other (Coby Carruthers) is a Junior (Under 18). Laurie is one of the most successful players in the Nepean District, certainly in recent history, with an outstanding career stretching back to 1967. Coby is a young dynamo on a fast track to the top, having already achieved many notable victories at a remarkably early stage of his career. Having achieved a handicap of Scratch just this week, Coby is already ranked among the leading A Grade players at Leonay GC.

Coby Carruthers (15 Years) Leonay GC Junior Club Champion 2019 St Dominic’s College, Kingswood 1. Years playing golf: I started playing Golf when I was 8 and got my handicap when I was 10 2. Starting handicap: 34 3. Current handicap: 0 4. Major Achievements: 2019 Junior Club Champion at Leonay GC; 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 Junior Pennants representative for Leonay GC; 2019 Eric Apperley Shield representative for Penrith Golf Club; 2020 Major Pennants representative for Leonay GC; 2019 Don Watson Handicap Matchplay Champion; 2020 John Fearnley Cup Winner at Dunheved; 2019 Member of the Jack Newton Golf Foundation (JNJG) North Sport Academy winning team; 2018 and 2019 Western Sydney Sport Academy member; scoring 63 twice at Leonay GC; 2018 Runner up Under 13’s Sydney Week of Golf (lost on 6th playoff hole); 2019 3rd place Under 14/15’s Sydney Week of Golf. 5. What’s in the bag: a) Woods - SIM MAX Taylormade Driver - M3 3 wood Taylormade; b) Irons - MP 53 Mizuno Irons; c) Wedges - Taylormade 52˚ - Vokey 56˚, Taylormade 60˚ HI-TOE; d) Putter - Odyssey Stroke lab 3; e) Ball - 2020 AVX; f) Shoes - FootJoy flex; g) Glove - FootJoy 6. Future aspirations: To be a Golf Professional. 7. Favourite Club in the bag: Driver 8. Biggest highlight of your golf life to date: Being named in the Leonay GC Major Pennant team at 14 years of age.

Laurie Cupples Leonay GC Veterans Club Champion 2019 Retired Handicap: 4 Started playing golf September, 1967 at Temora GC and playing on sand greens. During the 70’s, Laurie won 3 Club Championships, 4 Foursomes Championships and 3 Open Championships, in addition to representing South West Slopes District in both Junior and Senior pennants. Laurie joined Leonay GC in 1977 and has set an amazing standard of Major Championship victories, which began in 1981. Over the following 39 years, Laurie has won a total of 82 major events, including Club Champion, Matchplay Champion, Foursomes Champion, Foursomes Matchplay Champion, Mixed Foursomes Champion and Opens, Senior Championship, Ray Dukes Cup and the Nepean River Bowl. There have also been several wins in Nepean District Opens, he represented Nepean District on 8 occasions and won ‘Nepean District Player of the Year’ in 1991. In pennants, starting in 1980, Laurie has played approximately 360 games for Leonay including Nepean A grade, Metropolitan, Nepean Mixed and Masters, whilst also playing Super Seniors Pennants in 2019 for Glenmore Heritage Valley GC. In 2017, Laurie won the NSW Veteran Golfers Association (NSWVGA) Stroke-Play Championship and finished 3rd in the NSW Senior Order of Merit (SOOM) series. What’s in the Bag: Callaway Rogue Driver, Cleveland Fairway Metals, Cleveland Irons, Cleveland wedges 52° and 58°; Scotty Cameron Newport 2 putter; Titleist Pro V1 Ball; no glove Favourite Club: 8 Iron In what has been an extraordinary career, the standout for Laurie was playing 18 holes with West Indies Cricket legend and superstar Sir Garfield Sobers, during a promotional trip sponsored by the Emu Plains Cricket Club.

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Associated with the Christian church (14) 10 Pertaining to modern day Persia (5) 11 Redemption (9) 12 A mineral found in bones (7) 13 Nonattendance (7) 14 Muscle fiber (5) 16 Adorns (9) 19 A notable or unusual sight (9) 20 Bearskin (5) 22 A word from rearranged letters (7) 25 Folds (7) 27 One who studies the past (9) 28 Lets fall to the ground (5) 29 Squares (14)

DOWN 2 Dare (9) 3 Fifty-eight in Roman numerals (5) 4 Convulsive (9) 5 Fragrance (5) 6 Hoarded possessions (9) 7 Not dirty (5) 8 Froths (7) 9 Cringes (6) 15 Aquatic bird (9) 17 A gradual increase in intensity (9) 18 Change (9) 19 Collision (7) 21 Preoccupy (6) 23 Ancient Assyrian city (5) 24 A New England state (5) 26 Breed of duck (5)

solution 16/4/20

PENRITH PANTHERS

mark with MARK GEYER

The family that isolates together trains together F

irst things first, how are you all? Wow is a word lots are uttering daily and with good reason. This pandemic is real and came with a thud. But let’s keep working together to rid this horrid virus from our country once and for all. There are 7 of us in lock down in my ‘compound’ at South Penrith. Raff, our youngest came up with a novel way to pass the time whilst all together in isolation. She reasoned that ‘because there are 7 of us, and there are 7 days in the week why don’t we get our own day to organise everything from breakfast, lunch, dinner, training, games to play and what movie we should watch.” Great idea. So every Sunday night we put all of our names in a hat and all the days of the week in another hat, pull out a name and a day and that’s ‘your day’. It has seen us all stretch our imagination and has seen the likes of colouring in, handball, basketball and other various games that we haven’t played in ages. Obviously it’s harder for our kids than it is for Meags (my wife) and I, especially my daughter Kennedi who celebrated her 21st birthday recently. But we had something very special planned for her which blew her mind!

 The Geyer clan implementing Raff’s great idea

We have never experienced anything like this in our lives and let’s hope we never do again, but as soon as we resign yourselves to the fact

that we must all be in this together and self isolate and keep up with our social distancing, the sooner things will be back to some sort of normality.

Stay safe, and love the ones you’re with.

MG (random Westie) OAM

Nepean News 30 April 2020 Issue 276

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