Fusion
MP thanks local pharmacists
TANYA Davies MP, Member for Badgerys Creek thanked and commended pharmacists in her electorate of Badgerys Creek in anticipation of Thank Your Pharmacist Day, which was celebrated on Thursday 13 March 2025.
Mrs Davies was pleased to visit Assad and Mia at MediAdvice Pharmacy at Glenmore Village on Wednesday and expressed her appreciation to the pharmacists and their fellow colleagues for their service to the community.
Glenmore Village is the newly opened shopping precinct in the Mulgoa Rise community, adjacent to Nangamay Public School.
“I’m grateful for the dedication of our exceptional pharmacists to our community and it’s wonderful to celebrate their important role in our health and wellbeing,” Mrs Davies stated.
The theme of this year is ‘Pharmacists Stepping Up’, which reflects the important and growing role of pharmacists in meeting the health needs of our community, through the provision of timely, accessible and quality care.
“I acknowledge the vital work of all pharmacists and wish them the very best as we celebrate them,” concluded Mrs Davies.
Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644
Greg Davies 0419 177 259
Larry Davis 0432 062 643
Journalist: Journalist: Graphic Design: Printer: Letters to the Editor:
Noel Rowsell 0424 007 202
Greg Yanda 0425 232 043
Stacey Broomhead 0420 319 893 Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown nepeannews@aol.com Editor:
Nepean News is not tossed onto your front lawn. Collect your crisp copy FREE from local newsagents, service stations, libraries, Council and shopping centres.
Ready for fun: Regatta Park
LAST weekend Penrith Council officially opened the recently finished Regatta Park on the banks of the beautiful Nepean River.
“It was great to see so many families out enjoying this fabulous space,” Mayor Todd Carney said.
Celebrate Penrith’s Quiet Heroes
Nominations Open for Penrith’s Volunteer of the Year Award 2025
BY KAREN MCKEOWN OAM MEMBER FOR PENRITH
IN NSW, over 4.3 million people volunteer their time to help others, contributing to over 839.9 million hours of service. While volunteers are the backbone of our community – giving, sharing, and sparing their time to help out – they often go unnoticed.
Now, I invite you to recognise those volunteers and celebrate the importance of the work they do in this year’s Penrith Volunteer of the Year Award.
The awards are an annual program run to recognise and celebrate the outstanding work of volunteers in our Penrith community.
This year, I am opening nominations for the public. The nomination requires nominators to provide a short description outlining why the nominees’ contributions to the Penrith community in the last 11 months make them Penrith’s Volunteer of the Year. The winner will go on to be nominated by myself for the 2025 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards.
How to Nominate:
To nominate a deserving volunteer in the Penrith electorate, head to our website to complete the secure online nomination form or collect a form from our office at Shop 23, 510-534 High St, Penrith NSW 2750 — nominations close on Friday, 16 May 2025, at 11:59 pm.
Eligibility:
Nominees can be of all ages and backgrounds and must reside within the Penrith electorate, encompassing the following localities and postcodes: Cambridge Gardens, Cambridge Park, Castlereagh, Cranebrook, Emu Heights, Jamisontown, Kingswood, Leonay, Penrith, South Penrith, Werrington Downs. For more information or to nominate a deserving volunteer, head to https://karenmckeown.com.au/ nominations/penrith-volunteer/
Hydrostadium signs as official Whitewater Partner for 2025 ICF Slalom World Championships
BY NOEL ROWSELL
PADDLE
Australia is pleased to announce Hydrostadium as the official whitewater partner of the 2025 ICF Slalom World Championships. This partnership marks a significant milestone, as it comes 25 years after the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games, where engineers from Hydrostadium played a pivotal role in designing and constructing the Penrith Whitewater course.
The construction of the Whitewater Stadium was managed by Pacific Power International and funded by the NSW Government, Penrith City Council, and the International Canoe Federation, ensuring the venue became a world-class facility for the sport. Following the Olympics, Hydrostadium was established and has continued to be a global leader in whitewater engineering.
In addition to its event partnership with Paddle Australia, Hydrostadium will supply replacement obstacles for the stadium’s whitewater course, ensuring it remains one of the best in the world for elite competition. These obstacles— exclusive to Hydrostadium—have demonstrated exceptional durability and performance over 25 years. The upgrades will not only benefit highperformance slalom athletes but also enhance the venue’s recreational paddling, rafting, and whitewater rescue training programs.
Head of the Host Organising Committee Richard Fox MBE said: “I remember in 1997 standing in what was a field at the time imagining a whitewater course here in Penrith for the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games.
“With the help of Hydrostadium and Electricité de France (EDF), its mother company, and many others, we were able to construct this beautiful
venue, which 25 years on, beyond the Games, is still standing tall.
We’re really proud of that journey, and we’re really excited (to partner with) Hydrostadium, which was born at that time; to be collaborating around the 2025 ICF Slalom World Championships with them as a whitewater partner for our sport. I see it as the beginning for many great things to come for our sport, and for our venue.”
Paddle Australia CEO Kim Crane said: “It is incredibly exciting to be announcing this partnership with Paddle Australia and Hydrostadium.
“We’re writing another chapter of the Sydney legacy story, and to be able to
do that 25 years later is exactly what we’re endeavouring to do here at Paddle Australia – demonstrate what legacy truly means.
“We’re looking to create a dynamic and thriving paddling ecosystem and elevate our sport and lifestyle onto the world stage. So to have a credible, world-leading infrastructure partner with Hydrostadium, under the whitewater context, is incredibly exciting for us,” she said.
Hydrostadium CEO Stanislas Lequiller said: We are really happy to sign this partnership with Paddle Australia. 25 years ago, Hydrostadium was already here to design this stadium, and we are proud to be back
again. This means a lot to us to still be part of the future of the stadium in signing this agreement today.
“Penrith Whitewater Stadium was built 25 years ago and is still one of the best whitewater parks in the world. It shows that we can design and build sustainable and relevant projects. This is how we want to keep working with our partners. And in particular here with Paddle Australia,” he said.
The Sydney 2025 ICF Slalom World Championships will bring the world’s best athletes to Penrith, reinforcing Australia’s status as a powerhouse in canoe slalom and showcasing the venue’s legacy 25 years after the Sydney Olympics.
L-R Lauren Chester (General Manager - 2025 ICF Slalom World Championships), Stanislas Lequiller (Hydrostadium CEO), Kim Crane (Paddle Australia CEO), Richard Fox (Head of the Host Organising Committee, 2025 ICF Slalom World Championships).
Photo courtesy of JGR Images / Paddle Australia
Lindsay and Macquarie Small Business and Manufacturing Forum
BY
AS the Federal Member for Lindsay, I have always been passionate about our local small businesses and manufacturers.
When I was first elected in 2019, I founded our local Small Business Network, Advanced Manufacturing Taskforce and Jobs of the Future Forum.
These have been integral in informing the Coalition’s plans in government and now in opposition.
That is why I hosted, alongside our Liberal candidate for Macquarie Mike Creed and Senator Dave Sharma, a Small Business and Manufacturing Forum with Sussan Ley.
Sydney is
It was terrific for Sussan to hear about the concerns of our small businesses and manufacturers from across Penrith, St Marys, Emu Plains, the Blue Mountains, and Hawkesbury.
What we know for sure is Western
Sussan is the Deputy Liberal Leader, and our Shadow Minister responsible for small business, industry, training, and women.
of the
places for business failure in the country. We need to get Back on Track with an elected Dutton-led Coalition government to restore small business as a priority.
As I’ve always said, manufacturing is a core part of what we do in
Transforming Visions into Reality with
Western Sydney, and our industrial estates across Penrith, Emu Plains, Emu Heights, St Marys, and North St Marys provide so many great Aussie jobs to locals across our region.
We had around 50 small business and manufacturers attend at Emu Sports Club in Leonay.
& Planning Proposals
• Land & Environment Appeals Support
• Efficient Development Applications
• Specialized Consultant Reports & Statements
• Thorough Building Code Assessments
• Construction Certificate for both Commercial & Residential Projects
• Complying Development Certificates for both Commercial & Residential Projects Why Choose Urban City Group?
✓ Decades of proven experience in Private Certification, Town Planning and Development Consultancy
✓ Access to over 100 expert consultants ready to support your project
✓ Streamlined Approval Processes tailored to your needs
✓ Trusted guidance from concept to completion
MELISSA MCINTOSH FEDERAL MEMBER FOR LINDSAY
one
highest
Virtual prehabilitation transforms surgery preparation at Nepean Hospital
NEPEAN Hospital’s Preoperative Education and Prehabilitation Program (PrEPP) is making moves in more ways than one with the innovative program expanding its services virtually, transforming the way patients prepare for major surgery and leading to improved patient outcomes.
Using videoconferencing technology, PrEPP delivers a comprehensive exercise and diet regimen directly to patients’ homes before their operation. The two-to-six-week program has been designed to optimise a patient’s physical and emotional wellbeing and recovery by increasing accessibility to prehabilitative care.
As a result, patients have benefitted from less intensive care unit admissions, minimal postoperative complications and a reduced hospital length of stay (8.5 days) compared with non-prehabilitation patients (10.2 days).
While run successfully as an in-person model since 2018, the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted a need for alternative access methods to prehabilitation. Virtual PrEPP ensures all patients, regardless of location, mobility, or personal preferences, can benefit from this evidence-based program.
Nepean Hospital Clinical Specialist
Physiotherapist, Anwar Hassan says PrEPP represents a significant advancement in preoperative care, empowering patients to actively participate in their recovery journey and ultimately improving surgical outcomes.
“Patients may be unsure about what to expect, who they will encounter, their own responsibilities in recovery, pain management strategies, and the advantages of early mobilisation. Effective prehabilitation addresses these knowledge gaps, providing both mental and physical preparation for the entire surgical journey,” explains Anwar.
“We operate a multidisciplinary model where there are a number
of simultaneous interventions to support a patient’s condition before surgery. These include physiotherapy (provided by Josh Dardo) to improve strength and fitness, dietary reviews with dietitians (Michelle Stewart and Rebecca Salter), cardiovascular and pulmonary assessments by physicians, and potential referrals to the acute pain team for post-operative pain management education.”
The virtual program’s success is reflected in the overwhelmingly positive feedback, with patients remarking how beneficial it has been in getting them ready for surgery.
“I thought doing those exercises would have gotten me in trouble and rest was necessary. However, the
exercises helped me get out of bed and reduced my hospital length of stay,” one patient shares.
“It (PrEPP) improved my confidence going into surgery by helping me get stronger and better informed,” another patient states.
“You can never be prepared enough for surgery and this program helps both physically and mentally,” a third patient says.
Patient satisfaction surveys have reinforced the incredible results. In one survey, 60 patients rated the program’s usefulness on a scale of 1 to 10. An overwhelming majority of 53 patients gave a score of 9 or 10, indicating exceptionally high satisfaction. Similarly, in another survey, when asked if they would recommend PrEPP to others, 61 out of 62 patients responded affirmatively.
Researchers are currently conducting a randomised control trial, supported by a Sydney Health Partners Implementation Science Pilot Grant, to compare the effectiveness of the virtual program with the traditional inperson program.
Looking ahead the PrEPP patient cohort could be broadened to include additional surgeries and services, such as complex ear, nose, and throat procedures and breast cancer-related surgeries.
Physiotherapist Josh Dardo, Clinical Specialist Physiotherapist, Anwar Hassan, Physiotherapy Head of Department Shelley Boyle and Manager Virtual Care, Tanya Baldacchino.
Refurbished basketball court for Bethany Primary
TANYA Davies MP, Member for Badgerys Creek, joined students and staff at Bethany Catholic Primary School in Glenmore Park to formally open their repaired and refurbished basketball court, courtesy of $62,000 in funding through the Community Building Partnership Program.
Mrs Davies expressed her delight at securing an investment into Bethany Catholic Primary School, Glenmore Park. “I was pleased to support this worthy project and I’m thrilled see the students enjoying the repaired and refurbished basketball court. I commend the school on their own fundraising efforts which contributed to the project.” Mrs Davies stated.
Mrs Davies also recently met with Luke Demanuele, President of St Clair Junior Rugby League Club, former club President and current Secretary Darren Mudford, and footy superstars Jarvis and Rocco, to celebrate the awarding of $21,616 through the Community Building Partnership Program towards the purchase of 2 portable changerooms at Peppertree Reserve.
“I commend current and former Presidents Luke Demanuele, Darren Mudford, Treasurer Angela Tester and their fellow club members for their commitment to this project and I had
no hesitation in offering them my full support. These portable changerooms will provide the growing number of women players with private facilities to prepare for their games. I am pleased to see more young girls and women become involved in sport and I am proud be able to support them by this grant.” stated Mrs Davies.
The other successful projects in the Badgerys Creek electorate for the 2023 round are:
• Sunnyfield: A new wheelchair modified van to help support local residents with intellectual and physical disabilities participate in recreational and therapeutic activities.
• Irfan College Inc.: A full insulated cover and concrete slab and fencing.
• Barramurra Public School P&C Association: A dedicated playground area with inbuilt equipment.
• Trinity Catholic Primary School Kemps Creek: Purchase and installation of 10 picnic tables with individual shelters. At least one of the tables will be fully wheelchair accessible.
• Wallacia Progress Association Inc.: Repairing of nine sash windows in the heritage listed progress hall, with two front windows also having lintels and casings replaced.
• Trustees of the Secular Institute of the Schoenstatt Sisters of Mary:
Repair access road, construct mobility access to existing accommodation, replace windows where needed in accommodation for improved comfort and energy savings, construct outdoor shelter.
Mrs Davies said she will continue to work towards securing further investment and positive outcomes for our community.
The Community Building Partnership program has funded more than 19,700 community projects since it commenced in 2009.
For more information, visit the Community Building Partnership website: nsw.gov.au/cbp
A magical outdoor cinema at City Park
CINEMA in the Park returns for a magical evening on Saturday 29 March from 6-9pm at City Park – and the first 150 attendees will receive free popcorn.
Penrith City Council’s Cinema in the Park is airing ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’ for everyone to enjoy.
Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said he was thrilled Council was hosting the free event again as it allowed families to come together, relax and experience City Park.
“We had a wonderful time hosting Cinema in the Park at City Park last year, and so we were eager to bring it back with another family-friendly film this year,” Cr Carney said.
“We’re giving popcorn to the first 150 attendees who come down. I highly encourage anyone interested to plan their night out — bring a blanket or some fold-out lawn chairs.
“We have fun crafting activities and face painting for the kids to enjoy before sitting down to enjoy the movie.
“You could even visit some of the local restaurants for a delicious dinner beforehand.”
Admission to the park cinema is free. Find out more at penrith.city/events
Penrith Library closing for renovations
PENRITH City Library will be closing for foyer and service desk renovations from Monday 24 March to Wednesday 2 April, reopening on Thursday 3 April.
The St Clair and St Marys branches will be open and operating as per normal during this time.
Some services will still be operational at the Penrith branch, including a “click and collect” service. The return chute will remain open and available 24/7.
Library members are welcome to use the “click and collect” service, which will be located outside of the Penrith Theatrette and available from 9-5pm on weekdays and Saturdays and from 10am–5pm on Sundays during the closure. Members can reserve up to three items at a time. To locate this area, head towards Westfield from the Library entrance.
Justice of the Peace appointments will be conducted in the foyer of the Penrith Civic Centre on an appointment basis.
Members are encouraged to visit St Clair Library and St Marys Library for browsing, borrowing, computer usage, photocopying, scanning, printing, and Justice of the Peace appointments during this time.
For more information, visit penrith.city/ library
Performing horses, flying trapeze, 12 person Teeter Board Act, Clowns, Comedy, Acrobat and much, much more.
ST MARYS
Friday 7th to Sunday 23rd March
SHOWTIMES
Friday 7, 14, 21 March
Saturday 8, 15, 22 March
Sunday 9, 16, 23 March
Wednesday 19 March
BOARD POSITIONS
St Marys, at the heart of Sydney’s Western suburbs, proudly embraces its rich heritage, seizes growth opportunities, and draws strength from its diverse community. The future of St Marys is now.
The St Marys Town Centre is seeking a forward thinking professional who represents a St Marys based community organisation to join our board.
This voluntary role of Director will effectively represent and promote the interests of the St Marys Town Centre and be responsible for the overall strategy, governance, and performance of the organisation. Commitment is key to this role. A time commitment of between 4 and 8 hours per month will include attending and participating in monthly Board meetings (held on site at the St Marys office), general meetings, and relevant committee meetings, as well as preparation time. Board members are required to have knowledge and experience of the role including legal, ethical, fiduciary, and financial responsibilities. The successful applicant will possess competencies in the following:
• Strategic expertise
• Commercial acumen
• Corporate Governance
• Risk Management and Compliance
• Leadership
• Ethics and Integrity
Penrith Museum of Fire Celebrates 40 years of women in firefighting
BY NOEL ROWSELL
FIRE and Rescue
NSW (FRNSW) has recognised the significant and ongoing contribution of women in firefighting at a special exhibition at the Museum of Fire in Penrith.
This year marks the 40th anniversary of the appointment of women, who were previously prohibited from becoming firefighters.
On the eve of International Women’s Day, FRNSW was joined by the Member for Liverpool, Charishma Kaliyanda, and Penrith Mayor, Todd Carney, at the Museum of Fire to officially open the “Breaking Barriers Battling Blazes” exhibition.
The display features images, artefacts and stories that showcase the capability, tenacity and community spirit of women firefighters.
Charishma Kaliyanda MP thanked pioneering female firefighters for paving the way for future generations.
“Days like this remind us just how far women in emergency services have come.
“It is inspiring to see how much has been achieved in 40 years, and I applaud the women of FRNSW, past and present, for their contribution.”
FRNSW Commissioner, Jeremy Fewtrell, said the exhibition is important.
“I’m proud to be here, in the lead up to International Women’s Day, to recognise the achievements and impact women firefighters have made at FRNSW.
“This exhibition brings to life the experiences of women and is a
HEALTH ALERT from Nepean Hospital
EARLIER this week
Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District (NBMLHD) began notifying about 223 women who gave birth at Nepean Hospital’s Birth Unit between 2013 and 2024 of a potential low risk hepatitis B exposure.
A healthcare worker in the Birth Unit has been found to be infectious with hepatitis B during this period of time.
NSW Health is not aware of any person being infected with hepatitis B by this healthcare worker.
Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District understands hearing this may cause concern within our community and to those directly impacted. For this we extend our sincerest apologies.
The NSW Health Blood Borne Viruses Advisory Panel has reviewed the care provided by the healthcare worker and determined the risk of transmission is low for 223 women and 143 children.
As a precaution, NBMLHD is offering free assessment and testing for hepatitis B for those women and children who may have been at risk.
Patients who have had one or more of the following procedures performed by the health care worker are being contacted:
1. Episiotomy
2. Repair of episiotomy or perineal/vaginal tear
3. Application of fetal scalp electrodes (mother and baby)
NBMLHD has worked with the healthcare worker to remove any further risk of transmission to patients.
All patients who are coming to Nepean Hospital for birthing services can be assured that staff strive to provide high-quality care in safe birthing environments.
Hepatitis B is a disease of the liver that is caused by hepatitis B virus and can be transmitted during birth, during sex and through blood-to-blood contact.
Hepatitis B is detected by a blood test which can show if a person has current infection or has had hepatitis B in the past and is no longer infectious.
The best protection from hepatitis B is vaccination.
Testing is important as there are now treatments available to prevent long-term complications of hepatitis B, and precautions can be taken to prevent the spread of infection to others.
Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District is committed to supporting the health and wellbeing of all women.
Women who are unsure whether they may be at risk can call a dedicated support line on 1800 716 662 for further expert information and advice.
More information on hepatitis B is available on the NSW Health website: https://shorturl.at/ KGdQB
reflective moment for us all.”
Museum of Fire CEO, Belinda McMartin, is proud to highlight the rich stories of female firefighters and other key contributors.
“Women have always contributed to the fire protection of NSW,” she said.
“This exhibition showcases the contribution of women who made an impact long before they were officially welcomed as firefighters.
“Regionally, in many instances, it was the women who ‘manned’ the fire station phones whilst their husbands and sons were at their primary place of work.
“The exhibit highlights grassroots initiatives from the early 20th century, then during World War II and the establishment of the Women’s Fire Auxiliary (WFA).”
The exhibit is open from Saturday 8 March to 23 November 2025.
Crimes Amendment
“I WANT to make clear the NSW Government will not be repealing hate speech laws passed in Parliament last month.
Our laws criminalised intentionally and publicly inciting hatred towards another person, or group, based on race.
They send a clear message: the people of New South Wales stand together against inciting racial hatred in our great multicultural state.
NSW has seen hundreds of antisemitic attacks and incidents.
This racial hatred has caused our Jewish community to live in fear in their own state.
While the caravan was part of a criminal conspiracy – and not the plot of a terrorist organisation – it was still appalling racial hatred.
It targeted the Jewish community. It targeted a racial group to instil terror in our state.
While these laws were drafted in response to horrifying antisemitism, we have always made clear they would apply to anyone, preying on any person, at any time.
In response to calls for the laws to be scrapped, doing so would be a toxic message to our community that this kind of hate speech is acceptable when it’s not.
These laws are very important to maintaining social cohesion.”
(L to R): Mayor of Penrith Councillor Todd Carney, Museum of Fire CEO Belinda McMartin, Former Deputy President of the Board of Fire Commissioners of NSW Dr Kristine Klugman, Member for Liverpool Charishma Kaliyanda and FRNSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell.
Charishma Kaliyanda MP FRNSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell Museum CEO Belinda McMartin
BY NSW PREMIER CHRIS MINNS
Local Leading Ladies
International Women’s Day: Shattering the glass ceiling
BY KERRIE DAVIES
THE glass ceiling is a metaphor used to represent an invisible barrier that keeps a given demographic from rising beyond a certain level in a hierarchy. The metaphor was first coined by feminists in reference to barriers in the careers of high-achieving women.
Life for Australian women has changed dramatically over the decades. Some of us are old enough to have lived through the changes, but even then we tend to forget how different it was until reminded.
If you are a married person now, who grew up in the seventies and eighties (like me) chances are your parent’s marriage and lifestyle was vastly different to how you live now.
For instance, my mother didn’t work for the first 15 years of my life, she didn’t drive and her home-
time dress code was an apron and rollers in her hair. She served up meat and three veg at precisely 6 o’clock on the dot so it would be piping hot when Dad walked in the door.
By stark contrast, I work, I drive and my standard home-time dress code is pyjamas and two inches of regrowth in my hair.
My husband Greg and I share the cooking duties, and more often than not if it’s my turn we are getting Chinese on Uber Eats.
A line springs to mind from the old song from Mary Poppins, circa 19 Sister Suffragettes: ‘No more the meek and mild subservients we; we’re fighting for our rights, militantly.’
And fight they did!
It is somewhat hard to imagine now, a world where women were not allowed to vote. And although we were leaders of sorts by being the second country to “allow” it (hello New Zealand #1) we didn’t allow
This International Women’s Day, I’m proud to be delivering real improvements to women’s health, including;
An endometriosis, pelvic pain and menopause clinic in our local area
The first PBS listing for new oral contraceptive pills in more than 30 years, with the listing of Yaz® and Yasmin®
PBS listing for menopausal hormone therapies
Prometrium®, Estrogel® and Estrogel® Pro.
More choice, lower costs and better access to longterm contraceptives, with larger Medicare payments and more bulk billing for IUDs and birth control implants.
Local Leading
Ladies
Celebrating the Nepean region’s female success stories on International Women’s Day
Aboriginal women to until much later. On that note, Aboriginal men couldn’t vote either, but that’s another story for another day.
Women were once not allowed to open a bank account without their husband’s permission; therefore they couldn’t take out loans or have access to their own savings. My head hurts just typing this!
Far less women had jobs or an income, and prior to the contraceptive pill being introduced had little alternatives on how their life would be played out.
Did you know that we once lived in times where if you were a female and enjoyed an alcoholic beverage, you’d be sat in a “Ladies Lounge” at the pub because women were banned from entering the public bar?
My grandmother used to tell me about my grandfather courting her. Many of their “dates” consisted of her sitting in a tiny room of the pub knitting him a scarf, along with several other girlfriends doing the same, while the blokes they hoped to marry drank up a storm in the main bar.
Can you imagine!
Thank goodness those days are gone and on International Womens Day, March 8, its a great time reflect on how far we’ve come - because it is proof that change can and does happen.
Let’s hope some of passion and drive that eventuated in previous changes can be captured.
We need it to push for some important changes for the future - such as pay equality and stamping out domestic violence.
Local Leading Ladies
DR Camille BRANDT
Winning six local business awards for outstanding pet care, Camille and Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital is also a regular column writer for Nepean News and the District Gazette. Camille has a genuine interest in supporting and mentoring student veterinarians, providing work placement and giving them a valuable insight into practical life in the veterinary industry. Always one to support the Penrith community, Camille and her team are often seen assisting the RSPCA Outreach team and raising funds for charities such as RSPCA and Guide Dogs NSW.
When Camille is not at work, she continues to study and find time to spend with her four dogs – Leo, Macka, Katie and Schatzi.
Marlene SHIPLEY
Marlene Shipley is the CEO of the very popular St Marys Diggers & Band Club spanning over two sites the Band Club Great Western H/Way and the Diggers Hall Street St Marys.
Marlene celebrates 32 years working at the club and within the community, appointed as the CEO of the Band Club in 2007, and then assumed the role of CEO in 2019 for the newly merged club now known as The St Marys Diggers & Band Club.
It’s a very exciting year for the club, embarking on the next staged renovation that will provide members and the wider community an exciting, new entertainment, dining, and social hub.
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S
Even though Club life keeps her busy, Marlene always finds time for others.
Volunteering on numerous boards allows her to spread her wings and gain more experience in other fields with the business community.
In 2016 Marlene became an authorised marriage celebrant, simply because she loves people and loves to share in their stories. Marlene has also served as an east ward Councillor on Penrith Council.
Marlene is a mum of three adult children and grandmother to seven beautiful grandchildren, with the most recent Mackenzie May being born to daughter Maddy and Son in law Rhys last week.
Local Leading
Ladies
Celebrating the Nepean region’s female success stories on International Women’s Day
Gina FIELD
Gina Field is a shining example of a woman determined to break down gender barriers and not only succeed but to become one of the best in a male-dominated industry. Starting her own security company 27 years ago as a home-based business with only one employee, Nepean Regional Security is now one of the most recognised and awarded security companies in the State. Winning over 30 industry awards including an International business award and the NSW Business Woman of the Year, Gina has featured on TV business programs, radio, newspapers, magazines and is a regular column writer for Nepean News, aptly called the “Left of Field “ (formerly G Spot). Now employing over 30 FTE personnel, Nepean Regional Security has been successful in Local, State and Federal
Government Tenders and being selected to be on the Whole of Government preferred suppliers panel.
As well as running her 24/7 365 days a year business, Gina has an interest in watching other small business grow. She supports shopping and employing locally , whilst encouraging Women to make the career change to the Security Industry. In her spare time she does public speaking and mentoring at business events and local schools. She has been an inspiration in business and was called a “ Tycoon” in business by the Sunday Telegraph.
Tricia HITCHEN
A PENRITH local, Tricia is a highly decorated former NSW Police Chief Inspector. Tricia spent all of her Police Service working in the outer western suburbs giving her a unique understanding of the difficulties faced by many families in this area. After retiring from the Police Force through injury Tricia continued her public service when she was elected to Penrith City Council in 2012, 2016 and 2021, serving as Deputy Mayor for three years and Mayor for two.
Married with three children, Tricia and her husband Trevor run a family owned removals and storage business, which has operated in the Penrith area for over 60 years.
Tricia is currently on the board for The Haven Nepean Women’s Refuge, Panthers Rugby Leagues Club and the Panthers Foundation.
The mother of a special needs child, Tricia is a strong advocate for disabilities, accessibility and equity and was successful in her campaign to have Council open an Adult Change Room in the Penrith CBD and one in St Marys.
Gai HAWTHORN OAM
One leading local lady who has managed to make an impressive mark over the years is Penrith CBD Corporation’s CEO, Gai Hawthorn OAM. Everything Gai does is with a focus on promoting Penrith and supporting small business. Anyone who has called in at the CBD headquarters in High Street will agree that it is simply amazing that such an enormous amount of work gets pumped out of her tiny office. The businesses in Penrith have an amazing resource at hand to help them achieve great success, and that is Gai. She always goes over and above to ensure no promotional opportunity is missed and that the community loves to shop local.
Gai has managed to turn community focus on celebrating all that is Penrith with her vibrant events, competitions and festivals. Inside her mind is a treasure trove of ideas and like a chameleon, she ensures Penrith continuously reinvents itself and is never left static. Not only has Gai talked the talk, but she has walked the walk - and earned the trust of business owners around her and is a godsend to the local media (especially here at Nepean News!) “I love working with Penrith businesses and the wider
Katrina COUCHMAN
Katrina is passionate about Penrith. She grew up in Penrith and moved to New Zealand at the age of 19 where she spent most of her adult life. Her days in New Zealand were spent in Cambridge with racehorses and raising two kids, Jake and Bronte, which Katrina says is her greatest accomplishment. “New Zealand gave me many amazing memories and Cambridge was a fantastic town to bring up the kids”.
community; we do a great job of all pulling together and joining forces for a positive outcome,” Gai said in typical humble form, giving the credit for success to others.
There are many qualities in which Gai possesses that have contributed to her success but one of the most important is that she has passion for Penrith running through her veins and always, always gives her best.
She thoroughly enjoys working with local businesses to help them grow and sustain for the future.
Gai is also well known for her philanthropic nature and giving back as a leading figure on Committees building a better future in Penrith, such as Penrith Community Kitchen, Pink Up Penrith with McGrath Foundation and PCYC Penrith. “Together we make a difference.” Gai is a much loved part of the Penrith community and her tireless work is appreciated.
These days Katrina is well known in the Penrith community and proudly manages WOTSO Penrith. WOTSO is the fastest growing coworking space with more than 30 locations across Australia and NZ. WOTSO is set to open their second Penrith location next month on Mulgoa Road in Jamisontown which was once occupied by Toys R Us. Katrina is excited about managing WOTSO Jamisontown which will have 20 private offices including a HealthSpace for allied Health Professionals.
WOTSO offers modern serviced offices, permanent desks, meeting rooms and event space to everyone from start-ups and sole traders, to project teams and larger corporates. All of WOTSO’s memberships are on a month to month basis with no lock in contracts, 24/7 secure access, high-speed internet and breakout areas, Katrina believes WOTSO has it all. “It’s your one stop home away from home”. katrina@wotso.com | 1800 4 WOTSO | 95B Station St, Penrith
Penrith CBD Corporation
Seniors Week
in Penrith CBD
18th-24th March 2025
The 2025 Seniors Festival Expo to deliver a huge range of exciting activities
SENIORS are encouraged to join the fun at this year’s NSW Seniors Festival Expo with more than 100 activities and stalls offering advice, tips, entertainment, and deals.
It’s the perfect event for seniors to engage with businesses, community groups, and the NSW and Federal Governments and associations to remain active in the community and access information services that promote healthy ageing.
More than 100 exhibitors will feature at the Expo, which features:
a tech zone for tips and tricks on using computers and staying scam savvy a live stage with talks from exhibitors and performances, including the NSW Police Band live cooking demonstrations in the Lite n’ Easy kitchen with celebrity chef Dominic Rizzo and senior dietitian Ashleigh Jones a sports zone to try out a range of sports and physical activities a workshop where the Australian Men’s Shed Association will demonstrate how to build a cubby house
A community connections zone featuring
a range of local community organisations providing services to seniors
The annual flagship is the NSW Government’s way of saying thank you to NSW seniors for their valuable contributions to society.
The event will be held over two days at the International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC) in Hall 4 on: Wednesday 12 March from 9:00am - 5:00pm and, Thursday 13 March from 9:00am - 3:00pm. Also taking place across the same two days are The Premier’s Gala Concerts - external site launch – four free concerts featuring some of Australia’s best talent for senior audiences to attend.
These events are part of the NSW Government’s commitment to provide opportunities for seniors to participate in, contribute to, and be included in their communities, all of which falls under the Ageing Well NSW: Seniors Strategy vision.
To keep up to date with information about the NSW Seniors Festival, visit www.nsw.gov. au/arts-and-culture/seniors-festival
Seniors Week
in Penrith CBD
you choose
The importance of planning
Preparing a Will, or making arrangements to appoint a Power of Attorney or Enduring Guardian, are tasks that many people put off.
Whether they are uncomfortable with the thought of planning for their ill-health or death, or whether they simply don’t know what they would like to do with their estate, all too often people leave it until it is too late -causing even greater problems and potential difficulties for family members and loved ones.
We focus on you
At Lamrocks, our clients are important to us. We take pride in the fact that we offer the best client service and we really focus on your individual legal needs. Our lawyers can be contacted easily by telephone, email or in person and more importantly, they give you simple, straight forward answers in language you can understand!
Our lawyers can be contacted easily by telephone, email or in person. More importantly they give you simple, straight forward answers.
Locally based and convenient Lamrocks Solicitors is Penrith’s leading law firm with a reputation for placing clients first and offering the best legal service in the region. We have been helping individuals and families from across the Greater Western Sydney region with their Wills and Estate planning needs for over 100 years. We understand the issues you might be facing and can work with you, and your family, to ensure that your wishes are carried out in the event of your passing, as well as protecting your assets and estate, both now and into the future.
ORCHARD HILLS
VETERINARY HOSPITAL
Ph
4736 2027
49 Wentworth Road, Orchard Hills
The Importance of Cat Vaccinations: Getting Back on Track After the Shortage
BY KELLIE TICKNER, ORCHARD HILLS VETERINARY HOSPITAL ADMINISTRATOR
VACCINATIONS are essential to keeping your cat healthy, protecting them from potentially fatal diseases and preventing the spread of infections within the feline community. With the recent vaccine shortage now easing, it’s critical to resume your cat’s vaccination schedule to ensure they remain protected.
Why Vaccinations Are Crucial Vaccinating your cat doesn’t just protect them—it also safeguards other cats in your home and community. Vaccines stimulate the immune system to create antibodies, preventing serious illnesses and reducing the risk of outbreaks. If your cat requires boarding, vaccinations must be administered at least two weeks before admission, making timely vaccinations essential.
NOW you’re in the know about solar and batteries - how they work, why they’re a smart investment, and what to consider before making the switch; it’s also important to understand how to get the best performance from your system once it’s installed!
Here are my top tips to help you
• Feline Infectious Enteritis (Feline Panleucopenia): This highly contagious and life-threatening disease can affect cats of all ages, with kittens being particularly vulnerable. Symptoms include fever, vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and, in severe cases, sudden death. Pregnant cats may face complications, and surviving cats can become carriers, posing ongoing risks.
• Feline Respiratory Disease (Cat Flu): Caused by viruses such as Feline Herpes Virus 1 (FHV1) and Feline Calicivirus (FVC), this condition leads to symptoms similar to a severe cold, including sneezing, eye or nasal discharge, fever, and ulcers. Severe cases can result in permanent eye or lung damage, and untreated infections may become fatal.
• Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV): This virus spreads through close contact, such as fighting or grooming, and weakens the immune system, making cats more susceptible to infections and certain cancers. It’s comparable to immunodeficiency syndromes in humans and poses a significant health risk.
Additional vaccinations may also protect against Feline Chlamydia and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV),
depending on your cat’s lifestyle and risk factors.
Resuming Your Cat’s Vaccination Schedule While the vaccine shortage disrupted schedules, it’s now time to get back on track. If your cat’s vaccinations were delayed, consult your veterinarian to determine the best course of action. Some cats may require additional doses to restore
their immunity, especially if they are overdue or need vaccinations for boarding.
If you’re uncertain about your cat’s vaccination status or need to schedule an appointment, contact Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital at 4736 2027. Keeping your cat’s vaccinations up to date is a proactive step toward ensuring their long-term health and happiness.
Jim’s Gems
maximize efficiency, savings, and long-term reliability:
1. Use Your Energy Wisely
• Run high-energy appliances (washing machines, dishwashers, pool pumps) during the day while your solar system is powering your home.
• Set timers for devices like hot water systems to take advantage of free solar energy.
• Charge electric vehicles or batterypowered devices during daylight hours instead of overnight.
2. Optimise Your Battery Usage
• Let your battery discharge during peak electricity pricing times to reduce reliance on the grid.
• Check your battery settings to ensure it prioritizes storing energy for self-consumption.
• If your electricity plan allows, export excess energy when rates are highest for maximum returns.
3. Keep an Eye on Your System
• Use a monitoring app to track solar production, battery charge levels, and energy consumption.
• Regularly check for any alerts or unexpected dips in performance.
• If something seems off, schedule a maintenance check to keep your system running smoothly.
4. Adjust for the Seasons
• In summer, take advantage of longer daylight hours by shifting more energy use to daytime.
• In winter, be mindful of shorter production periods and adjust consumption accordingly.
• Keep solar panels clean and free from shading to maintain efficiency.
5. Take Advantage of Smart Features
• Some batteries offer automation settings to optimize charging and discharging based on your usage patterns.
• Smart home integrations can help distribute energy efficiently across different devices.
Solar isn’t a set-and-forget situation. To reap the real rewards, you need to care for your system and use it wisely. By making the right choices, you’ll ensure your system continues to deliver long-term savings and efficiency.
If you have any other questions or need more information, feel free to give us a call at (02) 4760 0809. With almost ten years in business, we have plenty of knowledge up our sleeves, and are here and happy to help!
Historical St Marys
By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.
IN April 1840 The “Sydney Herald” recorded that “The new Church of St Mary Magdalene at South Creek was consecrated by the Lord Bishop on Wednesday last. The Church, which is a very neat building, elegantly fitted to contain about 500 persons, has been erected by subscriptions on a piece of ground given for that purpose by Captain King of the Royal Navy. Lady O’Connell has presented the Church with a very valuable plot of five acres of land in the immediate vicinity”. Previously, on the 23rd April Reverend William Grant Broughton had consecrated the church and with the churchyard both have been in use since that time with less burials now because “God’s little acre” has filled up totally over those years with the burials of some of the most prominent St Marys citizens as well as those who came out in chains and those who passed through or settled in the St Marys (South Creek) area. Of course the most prominent family buried in the churchyard is the family of Governor Philip Gidley King and his wife Anna Josepha King (Nee Coombe) who was born at Hatherleigh in Devon in 1765 and died on the 26th July 1844 at the age of 79 years. Philip was to return for the voyage home to England in August 1806 and when he was to embark in the Buffalo he completely collapsed and could not sail until February 1807. The stormy passage around Cape Horn delayed his arrival in England until November. He pressed the Colonial Office insistently for a pension but before it was granted he died on 3rd September 1808. He was buried in the churchyard of St Nicholas at Lower Tooting, London. In 1989 after the celebrations of the First Fleet re-enactment was fading into history, the headstone of Philip Gidley King was laid to rest beside the King Vault after it was brought from Tooting to St Marys. At the time of his embarkment to England Anna would take over the running the family property “Dunheved” at St Marys with the aid of managers. After King’s death in 1808 she was writing to her friend Sir Joseph Banks to see if he could intervene on her behalf regarding her petition to Lord Castlereagh for a widow’s pension. She was the Organizer of the Bridge Street orphanage for girls that provided wives for many settlers and she continued to help the poor and sick right up to her death. The name “St Mary Magdalene” commemorates the King family church in Launceston, Cornwall. Our church at St Marys stands on a grant of land made to surveyor-explorer John Oxley in 1823 and was acquired by Phillip Parker King in 1828. Before the church was built the people of “South Creek” had to wait for visits from the Reverend Samuel Marsden or Reverend Thomas Hassall who held services in a slab hut that was believed to be on the Great Western Road (Highway) where Victoria Park now stands. My maternal family has a long connection with St Mary Magdalene church and churchyard, starting with my mother Elaine Forde (Nee Hackett) and going back five generations to Susannah Bradley (Nee Rope) all buried there. Many interesting people besides the King family and their
many descendants is Alexander Barber the district medical Doctor for many years. He was born in County Derry, Northern Ireland in 1850 and died peacefully in 1906 at Dr McCormack’s Private Hospital in Sydney from complications of an internal operation for a growth removal. His funeral was held at St Stephens church at Penrith and his remains buried at St Mary Magdalene. In 1892 Dr Barber bought the old home that belonged to Mr Tindale in Penrith known as “The Towers” and he and his wife Sarah lived there. Sarah was born in Ireland in 1848 and married Alexander in 1875. They moved from Ireland to New Zealand in 1877 and then later settled in Australia. She died aged 76 and is buried with Alexander. Another burial is that of William Garner buried in the churchyard along with his wife Harriett Ann Garner (Nee Coles) He was born in 1804 and became the first Mayor of the St Mary’s Municipal Council. William died in 1888 in Sydney where he went to celebrate the Centenary and suddenly took ill and died at the home of relatives. Then comes Edward Lincoln born in 1816 and became Headmaster of St Marys Public School in Princess Mary Street. He died in 1863 at the age of 47. Benjamin Loveday was born in 1822. Ben came to St Marys in the 1840’s and was a builder who built “Tregear” the residence of the Lethbridge family and he helped Joseph Sainsbury with the construction of Neale’s first store at St Marys. Ben also built his own home (later known as Mrs Barrett’s home on the Highway) and was known for his garden and grapes. Ben was planning on going fishing on the day he suddenly died at his son’s residence at Parramatta in 1898. Watercolour of the Church courtesy of National Library.
Sources - Trove, Ancestry, The Australian Dictionary of Biography. My book “In the Little Churchyard on the Hill”.
Surprise your special someone with romantic flowers & gifts from Kingswood Florist.
Don’t forget to add a cuddly soft toy and delicious box of chocolates to your order for the ultimate wow factor. We can deliver your flowers and gift to Kingswood, NSW or nationwide.
Watercolour of the Church courtesy of National Library.
St Marys’ free multicultural event, Culture Fusion, is back for 2025
PENRITH City Council is inviting the community to Culture Fusion, a fun free multicultural event on Saturday 22 March 2025, to celebrate Harmony Week.
Join in to experience the best beats, bites and performances from all over the world from 10am to 3pm at Lang Park, St Marys.
Enjoy delicious food with cuisines from Italy to Asia, the Netherlands to Mexico and everything in between. Immerse yourself in the traditions of other cultures with our engaging workshops, or shop at the artisan market stalls to find unique treasures.
Attendees will be transported around the globe with our exciting stage performances featuring traditional dances, music and entertainment for the whole family.
Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said everyone is
invited to enjoy a fun-filled, colourful event in honour of Harmony Week, an important national celebration of our cultural diversity.
“We’re excited to be hosting Culture Fusion for the second year in a row to once again bring people together and foster a sense of inclusiveness, respect and belonging that we hope will be lived by everyone, every day,” Cr Carney said.
“Our vibrant Penrith community is home to people from over 110 countries who speak more than 80 languages and is underpinned by 60,000 years of First Nations Aboriginal cultural heritage. Our shared values of respect, equality and freedom go beyond our different cultures and are what makes Penrith such a great place to live,” Cr Carney said.
Culture Fusion will take place at Lang Park located at 9 Carinya Avenue, St Marys.
Harmony Week will be celebrated nationally from 17-23 March 2025.
To find out more visit: penrith.city/culturefusion
Workshops on offer at Culture Fusion:
• Henna Workshop
• Drumming workshop with Lucky Lartey African Dance
• Yoga and Zumba workshops with Ripples Leisure Centre
• Bollywood Dance Workshop with Nazeem Singh
Stage performances at Culture Fusion:
• A didgeridoo performance from Muru Mittigar
• Emerald Dragon – Lion Dance
• Manea Pacifica Dance Group
• Nupur Indian Dance
Hawkesbury Polo season opens at Killarney
KILLARNEY Polo Club hosted the opening tournament of the 2025 Hawkesbury Polo Season, with 10 teams defying the weather forecast and entering across three grades.
The weather held, producing a weekend of sunshine and action, with the Finals results as follows:
4 Goal Winners - Flat Hill Farm (Nick Wills, Tom Parry-Okeden, James Parry-Okeden, Agustin Ruiz).defeated Cutcliffe/Tibra 12 - 2.
0 Goal Winners - Flying Change ( Lee Portelli, Mike Barker, Billie Mascart, Anna Dowling) defeated Muddy Flatts 13 -7 (played over two days).
Subzero Winners - Killarney Orange (Melanie Cochrane, Greg Coops, Clive Withinshaw and Tom Dalton-Morgan) defeated M Polo 10 - 4 (played over two days).
Windsor Polo Club is hosting the second tournament of the season over 15-16 March and asks members and visitors to also invite family and friends for a day at the polo.
The draw for all three grades will be posted on the Polo Matchmaker FB page.
NOEL ROWSELL
Goulburn vs Arunga 4-goal action. Photos by Noel Rowsell
Winning teams of the 3 grades. Photo supplied by M Polo Management
City of Penrith Motorcycle Club Championships - Round 1
BY NOEL ROWSELL
THE City of Penrith Motorcycle Club reports Round 1 of the Club Championship turned out awesome!
With the weather being a bit sketchy, the club
ultimately made a good decision to proceed with the day, because we didn’t see a drop of rain all day. The track was good, and from the feedback all the riders, they had a fantastic day with 4 rounds of racing.
Big thanks to all the volunteers on the day who flagged, organised the dummy grid and start gates,
etc. Also, thanks to the committee for all the behindthe-scenes work leading up to the day, and the track crew for maintaining a good racing track for competitors
Already looking forward to the next CPMCC Race Day on Sunday 13 April. See you there!
Coby Carruthers selected for NSW for Interstate Challenge
OUTSTANDING
local junior golfer Coby Carruthers (Jordan Springs / Concord GC) has won selection to the NSW Men’s Golf team, which will represent the state in its quest to reclaim the Australian Interstate Teams Matches Title in May.
The strong men’s team is Declan O’Donovan (Avondale GC), Jye Halls (NSW GC), Kayun Mudadana (NSW GC), Blake Phillips (Concord GC) and Coby.
The women’s team is Rachel Lee (Avondale GC), Ella Scaysbrook (The Australian GC), Sophie Eppelstun (St. Michael’s GC), Charlotte Perkins (The Australian GC) and Annika Rathbone (The Australian GC)
The respective managers are Mr Michael Medway and Ms Olivia Wilson.
Declan O’Donovan will begin his third series in NSW Blue, after another standout summer, which included the successful defence of both his NSW Amateur crown and the WAGR-ranked Avondale Amateur.
Jye Halls, the reigning Australian Amateur Champion, will make his second appearance for NSW, alongside Coby Carruthers.
Kayun Mudadana.
The Lakes GC Teaching Professional Earl McGlinn will coach the team for the second year. McGlinn is no stranger to high-performance
golf, having worked alongside some of the State’s brightest talent over several years.
Graeme Phillipson, Golf NSW’s Chief Operating Officer, said the selected group had performed exceptionally over the past year.
“Looking at this year’s team, I’m confident we have selected the right mix of skill and determination.
“The combination of experience and promise in the squad ensures we have a balanced team ready for the challenge.”
The Sidecar competitors. Photo courtesy of CPMCC
Blake Phillips earns his first cap for NSW, as does the 2024 Australian Junior runner-up,
BY NOEL ROWSELL
File photos of Coby Carruthers. Courtesy of David Tease / Golf NSW
Wallacia and Springwood head to Major Pennant Playoffs
WALLACIA (Division 5) and Springwood (Division 3) Country Clubs have both won their respective Sections in the 2025 Metropolitan Major Pennant Golf competition and will now move on to the playoffs, with the added incentive of winning promotion awaiting the winners of each of the various semifinals.
Facing the challenge of needing a clean sweep of Cammeray to edge into first place in their Section, the Wallacia team rallied strongly for a 7-0 victory.
Playing at Wallacia, the day started superbly with Mathew Holmes (7/6), Martin Scicluna (7/6) and Josue Paz (8/7) each crushing their respective opponents, before Matthew Cheshire had a nail-biting and crucial 1-up win to keep the momentum rolling in favour of the home team.
Robert Walker (6/5), Paul Cheshire (5/3) and Chris Holmes (5/4) then completed the rout in impressive fashion to not only claim the Section title by the narrowest of margins (1.5 match points) but also secure a berth in the Final, and promotion in 2026.
Springwood has been lurking near the top of their Section, or leading, through the regular season but needed a crucial win away from home against Wakehurst to hold out Woolooware, who were expected to score an easy
win over Strathfield.
Gavin Stanford and Nathan Pellow both started well, securing draws in their respective matches, before Wakehurst took the lead after the third match.
Nick Gibson (3/1), Kyle Honeysett (3/1) and Jake Minney (6/4) won the next three matches to give Springwood the Section title, just half a Section point ahead of Woolooware.
Wallacia will play Hurstville in the Division Final, with both teams automatically winning promotion in 2026. Springwood will play
Cabramatta, with the winner progressing to the Division Final and also winning promotion in 2026.
The news isn’t as rosy for four other western Sydney clubs, which have all finished at the bottom of their respective Sections and will now head to the Relegation playoffs. Those teams are Penrith and Lynwood (Division 1), Richmond (Division 2) and Leonay (Division 4).
There was however more good news for players from western Sydney who play for other Division 1 clubs.
Concord has won its Section,
led by the undefeated quartet of Ti Fox (Richmond), Chayse Thorpe (Richmond), Coby Carruthers (Jordan Springs) and Kade Webber (Stonecutters Ridge) and will be joined in the Division 1 playoffs by Avondale, Cromer and NSW, with the latter including Blake Hodges (Erskine Park).
PLAYOFF MATCHES: Division 1 - Concord vs Avondale at The Lakes, NSW vs Cromer at Stonecutters Ridge; Division 3 - Springwood vs Cabramatta at Bayview.
RELEGATION PLAYOFFS: Division 1 - Penrith vs Lynwood at Bankstown; Division 2 - Richmond vs Monash at Eastlake; Division 4 - Leonay vs Warringah at Beverley Park.
Men’s Major Pennant Results (home teams listed first): Division 1 - Penrith 5-2 over The Lakes, Moore Park 4-3 over Lynwood, Pymble 5-2 over Stonecutters Ridge; Division 2 - Glenmore Heritage Valley 4.5-2.5 over Oak Point, Fox Hills 4.5-2.5 over Cronulla, Twin Creeks down 4.5-2.5 to Mona Vale, Richmond 4-3 over Pennant Hills; Division 3 - Wakehurst down 4-3 to Springwood, Killara 5-2 over Dunheved; Division 4 - Leonay 4-3 over Palm Beach; Division 5Wallacia 7-0 over Wakehurst.
Women’s Major Pennant Division 1 - Stonecutters Ridge 4-3 over Concord.
Women’s Grade Pennant Division 4 - Penrith drew 2.5-2.5 with Mona Vale.
Local players shine in NSW Senior Amateur
THE
Bay golf clubs over 4-6 March, with several western Sydney players impressing overall and in the
respective age categories.
15 players from western Sydney clubs competed in the Men’s division, headed by Craig Williams (Dunheved GC), who finished in 8th position outright and 4th in the 55-59 Men’s category.
Jeff Gadd (Penrith GC) tied 11th outright and tied 6th in 50-54 Men; John Fearnley (Dunheved GC) tied 16th outright and 4th in 60-64 Men, whilst Denis Day (Penrith GC) tied 39th outright and 1st in 70+ Men.
In the women’s ranks, western Sydney had two representatives, led by Jill Baldacchino (Springwood CC) who finished 23rd outright and 1st in 70+ Women. Full results can be found on the competition website www.golfgenius. com/pages/11084136747087477364
2025 NSW Senior Amateur was held at Pacific Dunes and Nelson
Chris Holmes (Wallacia) in Major Pennant. File photo by Noel Rowsell
BY NOEL ROWSELL
BY NOEL ROWSELL
Denis Day. Courtesy of Kass Rogan / Golf NSW Jeff Gadd (Penrith), Craig Williams (Dunheved), John Fearnley (Dunheved). Photos by Noel Rowsell
BY NOEL ROWSELL
THE Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre (PVRSC) will host the 2025 NBL1 East Blitz this weekend, with the first women’s games featuring the Penrith Panthers vs Hornsby Spiders and Hills District Hornets vs Norths Bears, both tipping off at 11am.
Sunday’s women’s games commence with two women’s game at 9am, with the Newcastle Falcons vs the Hornsby Spiders and Bankstown Bruins vs Inner West Bulls. The Penrith women play the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles at 1pm.
The first men’s game on Saturday will commence at 3pm, with the Bankstown Bruins vs the Canberra Gunners at 3pm, with the Penrith men playing the Hornsby Spiders at 7pm.
424 NBL game veteran Jason Cadee will return home to the Bruins this season and his inclusion should guarantee the opening men’s game of the Blitz is a high-energy, high-scoring affair.
Recently retired from the NBL, which included time with the Sydney Kings, Cadee spent the past six winter seasons in Queensland, playing for the Brisbane Capitals during the QBL-era, and the Gold Coast Rollers since the introduction of the NBL1 North.
Cadee was widely regarded as one of the best players in the conference playing for the Rollers, winning the 2022 Championship and Finals MVP, the 2023 regular season MVP, leading Gold Coast to the Grand Final in 2023, making three First-Teams and scoring 52 points in a single game.
“The last time I played in the East, it was called the Waratah League, and we won it all with a group of Bankstown juniors,” Cadee said.
“I’m excited to be back, aiming to help the Bruins make the playoffs again whilst also connecting with the junior Bruins.”
Penrith’s Sunday fixture is against the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles at 5pm.
Jason Cadee in action for the Sydney Kings in the 2015-16 NBL season. Photo by Noel Rowsell
The Men’s and Women’s draw for the NBL1 East Blitz.
$5,000 up for grabs in Round 2
BY PANTHERS MEDIA
The Panthers Foundation has guaranteed a $5,000 prize in the 50-50 Charity Raffle to celebrate the first home game at CommBank Stadium on Friday.
RATHER than splitting the fundraising pool as usual, the Panthers Foundation has ensured the winner of this week’s raffle will take home a $5,000 cash prize.
The first raffle of 2025 came in Round 1, when the winning entry took home $3,930.50.
This week’s special fundraiser adds to the housewarming festivities as the Panthers face the Roosters in their CommBank Stadium debut.
The 50-50 Charity Raffle raises funds for Panthers Foundation’s community, education and participation initiatives.
The Round 2 Raffle is now open and will close at 9pm on Friday 14 March.
Enter the raffle now for a chance to win $5,000 at https://5050charityraffle. com.au/panthers
