LOCATION DEVICE
BY
Alert loved ones or co-workers with app notifications including map
Receive immediate operator contact during a situation with 24/7 monitoring.
SOS emergency
Location tagging
Fall detection
24/7 monitoring
Receives operator calls
4G connection
Rechargeable
IP67
NDIS approval pending
Asha Dooley appointed AFDA President
AT a time of increased public focus on professional standards and the significant cost of end-of-life services, the Australian Funeral Directors Association (AFDA) is pleased to announce the appointment of local Asha Dooley as its new President. Ms Dooley assumes leadership with a firm commitment to enhancing transparency, strengthening professional standards, and advocating for consistent, highquality care across the industry.
The funeral sector is currently navigating important discussions regarding oversight and accountability. These conversations occur against a backdrop where the cost of funerals remains a critical consideration for families, with recent data indicating average expenses can range from approximately $4,000 to over $15,000 or more, varying based on services and location. Ensuring value and clear pricing in these oftendifficult circumstances is paramount for consumer confidence.
Asha Dooley, also Managing Director and Funeral Director at Grace Funerals, steps into the role previously held by Kelly Scott, who delivered impactful leadership, which fostered stronger community connections and delivered valuable resources for the industry.
“I am acutely aware of the financial burden funerals can place on families and the importance of clear, upfront information,” Ms Dooley said.
“My focus, and that of the AFDA, is to ensure that our members not only adhere to the most rigorous professional standards but also champion transparency in pricing and services, giving families peace of mind during a vulnerable time.
We will be strengthening our advocacy to promote these standards across the entire industry.”
Asha Dooley’s appointment signals a renewed push for transparency, professional integrity, and proactive advocacy, ensuring the AFDA and its members continue to provide compassionate, ethical, and high-quality care that Australian families can trust.
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Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644
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From the Editor’s Desk
BY KERRIE DAVIES
Let’s Not Forget Our Homeless This Winter
AS the cold weather sets in, many of us reach for an extra blanket, turn on the heater, or enjoy a hot meal in the comfort of our homes. But for far too many people in our local community, these simple comforts are out of reach.
Last week I was invited to spend the morning with Marty Beckett and the team at Christ Mission Possible. It was an opportunity for me to see first-hand the important work that they do helping house and feed those in challenging circumstances. During the visit I couldn’t help but notice that many of our local people facing these challenges do not necessarily fit the stereotype we tend to conjure up in our minds. Homelessness isn’t always visible. It can look like someone sleeping rough in a park, living in a car, or couch-surfing night to night. The reasons why people are in this position can also vary and include job loss, inability to secure a rental or a family fleeing domestic violence. What they all have in common is a daily struggle to stay warm, dry, and nourished—needs that become even more urgent during winter.
Now is the time to act with compassion. Local charities such as CMP are working tirelessly to support our most vulnerable, but they can’t do it alone. Donations of non-perishable food and new warm clothing—beanies, socks, gloves, jackets—can make an enormous difference.
Please consider dropping off what you can to one of the many local organisations helping those in need. Your contribution could be the reason someone gets a warm meal or dry clothes this week.
These are human beings who are down on their luck and in the cold months ahead, they need our support more than ever. If you are part of a charity organisation in need of products and donations, please also register your interest at nepeannews@aol.com. If you are a member of the public and would like to donate but are unsure where to donate to, feel free to shoot us an email at nepeannews@aol.com and we will put you in touch.
Farewell Lyn Forde
ALL good things come to an end unfortunately. That saying was sadly apparent this month when we received the news, for reasons out of anybody’s control, that this is the last month Lyn Forde will be writing our much-loved history page. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Lyn from the bottom of my heart for the valuable contribution she has made to this publication for well over a decade. If I had a dollar for every time somebody stopped me and said “I love reading the history page in Nepean News” I’d probably be richer than Murdoch. The Nepean News team extends our love and best wishes for good health and happiness to you Lyn.
All the announcements
NEPEAN NEWS has enjoyed the privilege of sharing the announcements of happy readers Verginee and Blake Brookes. In 2023 their engagement was announced in our publication, in 2024 their wedding was announced and now, drum roll... we get to announce the birth of their beautiful baby boy Selwyn!
Congratulations beautiful family!
Return and Earn Campaign
GUIDE Dogs NSW/ACT are the official charity partner for the Return and Earn Scheme from April 2025 until October 2025.
During this time, Guide Dog Solo will be featured on all 650 Return and Earn kiosks throughout New South Wales.
You can get involved too! By recycling eligible
cans or bottles at your local kiosk and pressing “donate”, your refund will help support people with low vision or blindness to live the life they choose.
Not only are these donations tax deductible, but they’re also a great way to get your friends, family or school involved in a meaningful cause, whilst taking care of the environment.
Partnership ensures aviation careers take off
WESTERN Sydney University, Bradfield Development Authority and Western Sydney International (NancyBird Walton) Airport (WSI) have joined forces to launch an innovative aviation micro-credential, designed to support the workforce ramp-up ahead of the airport’s opening in late 2026.
Tailored for school leavers, career changers, and current workers seeking formal aviation credentials, the Introduction to Aviation Operations Micro-credential was co-developed with Western Sydney businesses and schools, ensuring it meets both industry and community needs.
Graduates will earn a nationally recognised Statement of Attainment aligned with the Certificate I in Aviation and learn job-ready skills for roles like ramp operations, ground handling, and security screening.
Western Sydney University Vice-Chancellor and President, Distinguished Professor George Williams AO, said the University is pleased to offer this micro-credential to equip learners with the skills needed to take advantage of future job opportunities at the new airport.
“Upskilling the local community is vital not only for the airport’s success but also to ensure the community can benefit from the lasting opportunities it will bring to the Western Sydney region,” said Professor Williams.
“This micro-credential, delivered with WSI and the Bradfield Development Authority, helps to address the airport’s day-one workforce needs and supports long-
term precinct job growth, offering a blended, digital-first design with immersive 360° simulations.
“The University is proud to offer scholarships and targeted support for Indigenous learners, people with disability, and women pursuing careers in aviation. The program strengthens our partnership with WSI, which includes research and innovation projects, as well as internships and capstone learning opportunities.”
WSI Chief Executive Officer Simon Hickey said the airport has created thousands of jobs throughout construction and is now generating another wave of new career opportunities as the transition to commercial operations continues.
“WSI’s opening day is around the corner and with that comes many new job opportunities across the airport precinct in various roles, which will support all facets of our 24-hour operations,” he said.
“We’re really pleased to be partnering with Western Sydney University and the Bradfield Development Authority
on the development of this microcredential, as it’s all about connecting people with practical, accessible education and training pathways that can lead them to genuine job opportunities.
“While we’re firmly focused on day one of operations in 2026 – the jobs won’t stop there. WSI is built for growth, and as we grow so too will the associated job needs from terminal operations to our cargo hub, business precinct, retail stores, airlines and everything in between. The sky’s the limit.”
Bradfield Development Authority CEO Ken Morrison said the Authority was pleased to support the development of the micro-credential as part of the economic development strategy for the Aerotropolis.
“In Bradfield and the Aerotropolis, we’re focused on creating more high value jobs for the people of Western Sydney,” he said.
“This micro-credential not only supports exciting new local jobs and operations at WSI, it also enhances
the focus on attracting aerospace and aviation related businesses to the region.
“This is only the beginning, with the advanced industries already locating in the Aerotropolis set to drive even more jobs and economic growth, leveraging off the opportunities WSI offers.”
Led by The College at Western Sydney University, the microcredential prepares learners for entrylevel aviation roles and provides a clear pathway into higher-level vocational education and training (VET) qualifications and higher education Diplomas.
The program combines online learning, AI-powered support, practical workshops, and immersive 360° airport simulations – providing learners with real-world insight into modern aviation environments.
Learners can choose from three flexible delivery options including a standard six-week course, an intensive four-day workshop, or a one-day bootcamp for experienced learners.
The program is designed to be affordable and accessible to the community, priced at $350. Indigenous Australians, people with disability, women returning to work, and regional jobseekers are encouraged to apply for scholarships during the enrolment process.
The Introduction to Aviation Operations Micro-Credential is open for applications. For more information and to register, please visit https:// westernsydneyrto.com.au/course/ mc056-introduction-to-aviationoperations/.
Blacktown City Council seeks partners for $600 million infrastructure program
BLACKTOWN City Council is calling on the construction industry to help deliver more than $600 million in transformative infrastructure, with a formal Request for Tender (RFT) now open to establish a panel of qualified contractors.
The RFT, Contract C9/2025, will create a panel of Tier 1, Tier 2, and specialist construction partners to deliver a suite of major civic and community infrastructure projects across the city over the next five years.
Mayor Brad Bunting said the program represents one of the most ambitious and well-prepared civic infrastructure agendas in Australia. “This is a rare opportunity to help shape the future of one of the fastest-growing cities in the country,” Mayor Bunting said.
“Blacktown City has already delivered more than $250 million in major projects and this program takes
that to the next level. With more than $600 million in projects on offer, we’re looking for partners who want to build with confidence and purpose.”
“This is about more than concrete and steel. It’s about delivering lasting value for communities, for workers, and for the future of Western Sydney.”
Seven of the projects Council have funded through the NSW Government’s Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Program.
Projects to be delivered include:
• a new PCYC and community hub at Mount Druitt
• the revitalisation of Mount Druitt Town Centre’s public domain
• renewed aquatic centres at Blacktown and Mount Druitt
• a First Nations Cultural Hub
• the Seven Hills Community Resource Hub
• an upgraded Blacktown Arts Centre
• a new Civic Centre in the Blacktown CBD (pending Council decisions)
• a new Civic Office at Rooty Hill (pending Council decisions).
“Council has already delivered more than $250 million in major infrastructure over recent years, including award-winning facilities like the Blacktown Exercise and Sports Technology Hub and the Warrick Lane precinct,” Mayor Bunting said.
“This next phase is about partnering with experienced contractors which share our commitment to design integrity, construction quality and community value.”
The RFT will close at 3.00pm on Wednesday 18 June 2025.
To view the tender documents and apply, visit: Transformational Projects Construction Contractors Panel Contract - C9/2025 | buy.nsw
Artist impression of reception and café Blacktown Aquatic Centre.
Seven Hills Library and Community Hub.
Mount Druitt Swimming Centre interior.
Student learners, part of the pilot for the micro-credential.
Poverty should not limit a child’s potential
NEPEAN Evening VIEW Club
is urging the local community to give generously to The Smith Family’s Winter Appeal this year, to support thousands of children and young people experiencing disadvantage with their education.
It comes as The Smith Family’s latest Community Attitudes Survey of the Australian public, shows four out of five respondents (83%) believe that tackling childhood poverty should be a top national priority.
The Smith Family CEO Doug Taylor says “poverty shouldn’t limit a child’s potential”.
The Appeal aims to raise almost $8 million by the end of June 2025 to support students experiencing disadvantage by providing access to proven out-of-school educational programs.
“The results of our Community Attitudes Survey show Australians recognise poverty has an impact on a child’s education,” Mr Taylor says.
“However, what many people don’t see are the hidden impacts of disadvantage and the incredible emotional, social, and academic toll that can have on students during and after their schooling.
“But the right educational support at the right time through The Smith
Family’s evidence-based programs can make all the difference to those students and give them the tools and resources to fulfill their potential.
“By donating to the Winter Appeal, Australians can help young people most in need by giving them access to extra learning tools, so they can get the most out of their education and create better futures for themselves.”
The Smith family’s student2student
is a one-on-one program that brings an older and younger student together to read once a week.
Learning Clubs are a free, afterschool-hours support program that offers tutoring and help to students with homework and assignments.
“The evidence-based programs The Smith Family is delivering are as crucial as the financial and personal support we provide to students and families,” Mr Taylor says.
“Of the children participating in student2student, 94% say they improved their reading, whilst 81% of those taking part in Learning Club say it helped them to do better in the classroom.
“For people in a position to do so, please consider donating to The Smith Family’s Winter Appeal,” Mr Taylor says.
“Donations mean we can support more students with access to our programs and provide more help for children and young people experiencing disadvantage.
“Your donation today can have an enormous, life-changing impact for a student.
“Let’s make tackling childhood poverty and educational inequality a priority, beginning this winter.”
VIEW is a national women’s organisation with over 13,000 members in close to 280 communities exclusively supporting children’s education charity The Smith family. Members enjoy social activities while developing skills and making connections. The volunteers of Nepean-Evening VIEW Club support 5 students through the club’s fundraising activities. To find out more visit view.org.au or email: nepeanview@gmail.com
Dear Food Lovers,
My name is Dharma, and I’m excited to introduce myself to this wonderful community. I’m now operating DAD’s Indian Restaurant (Dharma’s Amritsari Dhaba), located at the former Tamilini premises – 12 Castlereagh Street, Penrith, right opposite Penrith RSL. I truly understand the emotional connection many of you had with Tamilini, and I deeply respect and appreciate the support you gave to it over the years. I humbly request the same warmth and encouragement as I begin this new journey with you. We’ve refreshed the space while preserving the cherished memories many of you hold dear. More positive changes and fresh vibes are on the way! My goal is to create a place that feels like your own – where your taste buds are always satisfied and your feedback is always welcome.
We’re now open for lunch and dinner from Tuesday to Sunday, and we’d love for you to drop by, try our food, and share your thoughts. Your feedback will help us continuously improve and bring you the best possible flavors.
Whether you’re planning a birthday celebration or a private event, our venue is ready to host you. We offer a rich and diverse menu – from beloved Indian street food to North Indian classics and spicy South Indian delights. Visit our menu at dadpenrith.com.au, which will take you straight to Dharma’s Amritsari Dhaba.
The initials of the restaurant – DAD – hold a special meaning for many, and I hope that name brings a sense of warmth and familiarity to all who walk through our doors. Looking forward to serving you and becoming a part of your food journey.
Warm regards, Dharma - Dharma’s Amritsari Dhaba – DAD’s Indian Restaurant
Penrith hosts NSW 24-Hour Economy Commissioner
MORE than 60 local businesses, government and industry representatives gathered today (Friday, 23 May) to explore opportunities to grow Penrith City’s 24hour economy.
Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said he was thrilled with the success of the Business Forum.
“The purpose of the forum was to allow businesses from across the 24-hour economy sector to provide their feedback on the OPEN: Penrith and St Marys 24-hour Economy Strategy, which is currently on public exhibition,” Cr Carney said.
“The forum provided valuable insights from the business community regarding the ways in which we can make our City centres just as vibrant, productive and diverse in the night-time, as they are throughout the day.”
The NSW 24-Hour Economy Commissioner, Michael Rodrigues was the keynote speaker at the forum where he analysed the trends and opportunities in the sector and how businesses can leverage the programs that the NSW Government has introduced to enhance the NSW 24-Hour Economy.
“I warmly welcome this milestone for Penrith and St Marys. NSW is the only state in Australia with a strategy for a 24-hour economy, and this is a strong signal to businesses and the local community that Penrith and St Marys are setting their ambitions high as well,” said Michael Rodrigues, 24-Hour Economy Commissioner.
“We’ve already worked with a number of businesses in the LGA, but we’re keen to broaden that engagement and work closely with Council to unlock the potential of a 24-hour economy, which is especially timely in the context of the new airport.”
Penrith and St Marys are undergoing rapid and significant change, influenced by major projects including the Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport and the Sydney Metro – Western Sydney Airport line.
“This change will propel visitation to our city centres by day and by night, generating a significant demand for an improved 24-hour economy,” said Cr Carney.
“Our vision for the Penrith City Centre is to become the night-time destination of choice in Western Sydney, while our vision for the St Marys Town Centre is to grow the late night economy with an evolving hospitality and service offering.
“I encourage businesses to continue to have
their say on the Strategy, as it is vital that we work together for the future of Penrith.”
OPEN: Penrith and St Marys 24-hour Economy Strategy 2025-2029 is on public exhibition until 13 June 2025. Have Your Say at yoursaypenrith. com.au/24houreconomystrategy.
Opinion: We will keep backing more homes for NSW
BY PREMIER CHRIS MINNS
I’M obviously disappointed that the proposal to build 25,000 new homes at Rosehill was voted down yesterday.
This was always a decision for the Australian Turf Club and I respect the outcome. But I don’t regret supporting a project for more housing in Sydney, which this city desperately needs.
The truth is, putting up an idea like this was always going to be a big gamble. And sometimes in life, the big gamble doesn’t come off.
But that’s not a reason to run away from the housing challenge, or to avoid these kind of big ideas in the future.
One of the reasons our housing situation has gotten so bad is that governments have been too scared to take risks on housing because of the backlash from NIMBY groups.
A city pays a price for that kind of timidity. And in Sydney, that price is being paid by our young people.
With that in mind, hats off to Peter McGauran and Peter V’Landys.
Peter McGauran had a crack, and I will always respect him for it. We need more people bowling up ideas and trying to get things done for the city, not less.
I didn’t know Peter V’Landys very well before I became Premier, but he’s a do-er. He’s someone who grabs initiatives and pursues them. I think Sydney could do with ten Peter V’Landys rather than one. We would be a more exciting, more dynamic city as a result.
If you try anything difficult, failure is always a possibility. But the lesson should never be ‘don’t try, because you might not succeed in the end’.
When it comes to housing, we have to take the opposite lesson: that we can’t give up, that we have to keep taking risks, to give our kids a future in this city.
As everybody knows, in the second most expensive city on Earth, the
one thing we need is more housing. Victoria and Queensland have been outbuilding us for decades. And we are now losing twice as many young people as we are getting back in return every year.
In order to get the ball rolling, we have to take some chances.
That’s why we changed the rules, to build thousands of new homes around train stations. It’s why we backed this up with the biggest government housing build in New South Wales. It’s why we established the Housing Delivery Authority, which has already approved 45,200 for our development pathway.
And ultimately, it’s why we said this proposed new suburb of housing in Rosehill was a one in a generation opportunity.
If the charge is that we were too bold, I have no problem with that.
This was a rare opportunity to build on top of the new metro line. It would have given tens of thousands of people a well-located home in the heart of Sydney. I still think it was a good idea, with a good motivation.
And if I had my time again, I’d back it in just as fiercely.
We will keep supporting big bold solutions for housing. We will keep our foot on the accelerator.
Penrith City Council’s Business Forum 2025.
Penrith Mayor Todd Carney with NSW 24-Hour Economy Commissioner, Michael Rodrigues at the Business Forum held in Penrith.
The coolest: Lower Mountains Air award recognition
BY KERRIE DAVIES
LOCAL business Lower Mountains Air Conditioning has once again earned statewide recognition, taking home a prestigious award for sales excellence at the Mitsubishi Electric Australia Diamond Dealer Awards over the weekend.
Owners Anthea and Andrew Strathdee were very proud that their hard work had gained recognition for the second year running.
“We are thrilled to announce for the second consecutive year, Lower Mountains Air Conditioning received recognition with an award for sales excellence at the Mitsubishi Electric Australia Diamond Dealer awards,” Anthea said.
The company was named one of the top Diamond Dealers in New South
Wales—an achievement that comes as the team marks 11 years since Anthea and her family took ownership of the business.
“We are always aspiring to achieve this goal and are proud as it is a true testament to the hard work,
dedication, and talent of our staff the past 12 months,” she said. “This award belongs to each and every member of our team, and we are grateful for their continued efforts.”
Anthea and Andrew also extended heartfelt thanks to their families and
loyal customers, adding, “We love what we do. Giving back to our community is what we want to continue.”
The team’s success reflects their strong commitment to quality service and deep roots in the Blue Mountains and Penrith communities.
Celebrating diversity: Jessica’s experience at NBMLHD
At Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District (NBMLHD), we are proud to foster a culture of inclusivity where diversity is not just celebrated but embraced.
ONE inspiring example of this commitment is Jessica Chou, a Clinical Nurse Specialist for Planned Care for Better Health.
Originally from Taiwan, Jessica moved to Australia in 2007 and began her nursing career at NBMLHD, quickly finding a supportive environment where her skills, passion, and cultural background could truly thrive.
Jessica’s experience at NBMLHD has been shaped by warmth, kindness, and connection. She fondly remembers the heartfelt support from her colleagues when she became an Australian citizen in 2019.
“My team decorated my desk with Australian flags and balloons. It was such a heartwarming gesture,” says Jessica.
This act of celebration highlighted the genuine care her colleagues have for her, seeing her not as someone different, but as an individual they respect and cherish.
For Jessica, NBMLHD is more than just a workplace—it’s a community that values cultural exchange and fosters a sense of belonging.
“NBMLHD is where I became Australian. It’s where I got my citizenship and where I work with a group of amazing, talented, and supportive people.”
Jessica believes that celebrating diversity is essential in creating a more inclusive and supportive environment.
“I want to celebrate our diversity and encourage people to freely express themselves. Let’s talk about the richness of our cultures and learn from each other.”
“Jessica’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing importance of embracing and celebrating diversity, and how it enriches our organisation and the broader Nepean Blue Mountains community.”
Western’s award-winning writers win at NSW Premier’s Literary Awards
WRITERS from Western Sydney University’s School of Humanities and Communications Arts, and the Writing and Society Research Centre, were shortlisted in the 2025 NSW Premier’s Literary Awards with one talented writer winning the Kenneth Slessor Prize for Poetry.
Hasib Hourani, author of the award-winning title rock flight, published by Giramondo Publishing based at Western Sydney University, was announced as the winner of the $30,000 Kenneth Slessor Prize for Poetry as part of the 2025 NSW Premier’s Literary Awards.
Additionally, Hasib Hourani’s rock flight has been shortlisted for the Association for the Study of Australian Literature’s Mary Gilmore Award, and for the Victorian Premier’s Literary Award for Poetry.
A total of seven literary works published by Western Sydney University staff and alumni were shortlisted across five of the 14 award categories including: Kenneth Slessor Prize for Poetry Winner:
• Hasib Hourani – rock flight (Giramondo Publishing)
Shortlisted:
• Adjunct Associate Professor Chris Andrews – The Oblong Plot (Puncher & Wattmann)
• Dr Kate Middleton, Writing and Society Research Centre alumna –
Television (Giramondo Publishing)
Christina Stead Prize for Fiction
Shortlisted:
• Emerita Professor Gail Jones –One Another (Text Publishing)
Translation Prize
Shortlisted:
• Adjunct Associate Professor Chris Andrews – You Glow in the Dark by Liliana Colanzi, translated from Spanish by Chris Andrews (New Directions Publishing)
Multicultural NSW Award
Shortlisted:
• Winnie Dunn, School of Humanities and Communication
Arts alumna – Dirt Poor Islanders (Hachette Australia)
Glenda Adams Award for New Writing
Shortlisted:
• Graham Akhurst, Sydney Review of Books Board – Borderland (UWA Publishing)
• Hasib Hourani – rock flight (Giramondo Publishing)
• Winnie Dunn, School of Humanities and Communication
Arts alumna – Dirt Poor Islanders (Hachette Australia)
Associate Professor Kate Fagan, Director of the Writing and Society Research Centre, congratulated Western’s winning and shortlisted authors, noting the results are just another example of the way the Centre
supports and produces such vital, high calibre literary works.
“The Western Sydney region is a true literary powerhouse. I feel immensely proud to work within such a dynamic and vital creative community,” said Associate Professor Fagan.
“Congratulations to all our winning and shortlisted authors from the School of Humanities and Communication Arts and the Writing and Society Research Centre. Giramondo Publishing again features in the lists, reflecting the excellent, ongoing work of Professor Ivor Indyk and his team.”
In additional success, Giramondo authors Brian Castro and Winnie Dunn, plus Writing and Society Research Centre’s inaugural Parramatta Laureate in Literature, Yumna Kassab, were recently longlisted for the highly prestigious national Miles Franklin Award.
As a leading Australian tertiary hub for literary studies and creative writing, the University’s Writing and Society Research Centre is home to two major national publishing ventures – the Sydney Review of Books and Giramondo Publishing.
The 2025 NSW Premier’s Literary Awards winners were announced as part of the Sydney Writers’ Festival program and are administered by the State Library of NSW in association with Create NSW.
(L-R): Jessica (Chia Chen) Chou and her colleague as they celebrate Jessica becoming an Australia citizen.
Quick-thinking 76-year-old volunteer saves life
WHETHER it was fate or divine intervention that brought Harold Becker to Westmead Hospital, there’s no denying he was in the right place at the right time.
Despite Vic Calandruccio and Harold having greeted each other in the hospital hallways over the years, their paths would intertwine as 76-year-old volunteer Vic saved the life of 81-yearold volunteer Harold Becker.
Harold is a Welfare Officer at Blacktown Workers Club and for the last 14 years, he’s volunteered to attend members funerals, visit nursing homes or conduct hospital visits if members are unwell.
“I’m happy to put a smile on their faces, a lot of them don’t get visitors. It makes me feel proud to sit down and have a talk with them for a while,” Harold said.
He came to the hospital to visit two club members that day.
“It had been raining so I walked pretty quick from the top carpark,” Harold said.
“When I got to the pharmacy inside the hospital’s entrance, I had run out of breath, so I stopped. That’s the last thing I remember,” Harold said.
Vic drives one of the buggy’s at Westmead Hospital, a volunteer-run
Wellbeing
service which helps shuttle people across the large parts of the hospital.
“I was sitting on my buggy, waiting for customers to come in,” Vic said.
As Vic arrived near the entrance, he noticed a man sitting on a seat who ‘didn’t look ok’.
“I realised there was a gentleman sitting, and all of a sudden he collapsed on the seat,” Vic said.
Vic called out for help and Robyn Samuels who was working at the Information Desk / Switchboard heard his calls.
“I rang a code blue to get the emergency team here. We then realised
he wasn’t breathing,” Robyn said.
Nurse Wendy Chan was working in the admissions unit when she heard people calling out.
“One of my colleagues called my name and sounded very concerned,” Wendy says.
Wendy ran out to see Vic, Robyn and two doctors attending to Harold.
One doctor quickly realised he didn’t have a pulse, so the other doctor began CPR immediately.
Wendy jumped into the second round of CPR, and despite never having performed CPR before, Vic and Robyn once again helped the man until
the team from emergency took over.
Doctors have no doubt that the swift actions by Vic, Robyn and Wendy were life-saving.
“I felt relieved that he was breathing again and rewarding that we saved a life that day,” Wendy said.
Nearly one week after Harold’s heart attack, hospital volunteer Vic and Robyn were given the chance to meet Harold who was recovering on the cardiac ward.
‘It was fantastic to meet them, I’m really happy. I’m just so glad that those people are volunteering,” Harold said.
Westmead Hospital’s Volunteer Manager Kylie Elliot says the incident is an example of the brilliant generosity and spirit of volunteers.
“It’s a great reminder to tell us all to check on your fellow people,” Kylie said.
Kylie celebrated her volunteers by decorating the buggy and office with superman-style pictures for ‘superhero Vic’.
“I think the volunteers need to know it was something so extraordinary and inspirational,” Kylie said.
Harold said once he fully recovers, he has plans for what to do afterwards.
“After I get out of hospital, I want to get back to doing what I’ve been doing… volunteering.”
activities for Veterans and their families
Coffee n Chat Veterans Mon – Fri early mornings – simply just a chat on the Train veranda (Veterans
B’fast Veterans & family 8.00am last Thursday of each month @ Veterans Support Centre (the Train)
Exercise classes White or Gold card holders Tue and Fri @ 8.00am @ Ripples, St Marys; occasional walks from/to the Train in lieu; must meet criteria
Walk n Talk n Breakfast Veterans & family Monthly walk on local footpaths from/to the Veterans Support Centre (the Train) Breakfast provided on return
Small bus day-trips Veterans Occasional, weekday or weekend; greater Sydney area; lodge interest at Veteran Support Centre
Computer Classes Veterans and partner Thursday mornings @ Veterans Support Cente (Train carriage); for beginners or for Photoshop classes
Merrie Widows Partners of deceased vets Last Wednesday of each month - gathering for lunch @ St Marys Diggers Club
Gov King Day Club Veterans & partner Wednesdays 9.00am @ Mamre House area
Packing Care Boxes Veterans 6-monthly day trip to Randwick to pack care boxes
Barefoot Bowls Veterans and partner 1st Friday of the month - mornings @ St Marys Diggers Club
Wellbeing activity for June 2025
DATE
EVERY MONDAY
EVERY TUESDAY
Coffee n Chat
Coffee n Chat - Exercise Class
EVERY WEDNESDAY Gov King Day Club - Guitars for Vets
EVERY THURSDAY
EVERY FRIDAY
Wednesday 11th June
Wednesday 25th June
Thursday 26th June
Friday 6th June
Saturday 14th June
Coffee n Chat - Computer Classes
Coffee n Chat - Exercise Classes
RSL sub-Branch Meeting
Merrie Widows
BBQ Breakfast on Platform
Barefoot Bowls
Monthly Walk n Talk n Breakfast
For enquiries about any of the activities, please contact either Leanne G at the RSL sub-Branch 0406 399 976, st-maryssb@rslnsw.org.au or Leanne M at the Veterans Support Centre 9833 4700, vietvet@vvaastmarys.org.au
National Motoring Heritage Day at East Kurrajong
THE National Motoring Heritage Day was celebrated locally at the East Kurrajong School of Arts on Sunday 18th May.
Originally scheduled to feature classic, vintage, tractors, antique tools & machinery, local arts and crafts, family & local history, military miniatures and WW1 display, NRMA display, railway memorabilia, stamps, coins, woodworking and vintage toys and games, the promise of even more rain and atrocious conditions resulted in the cancellation of many display events.
My Car Club NSW were among
the stalwarts who did attend, and newsletter editor Mark Hertz provided the following report. “This day is celebrated annually in Australia, on the third Sunday of May, and it’s an opportunity for owners of vintage, veteran and classic vehicles to display their cars, meet fellow enthusiasts and share their passion for motoring. It is a celebration of Australia’s motoring heritage and encourages public appreciation and support for all historic vehicles, with events being held across Australia.”
“Rain however is not a welcome visitor and unfortunately this year, the east coast was drenched, resulting in the cancellation of many display events. Nevertheless, our stalwart group could not be deterred, with
some members making the trek. Car numbers were about half the usual but still a rousing turnout for the day.
“The rain decided to drizzle continually, leaving the ground decidedly muddy, resulting in some early attendees actually packing up and making their exit around 10.00am - not our team, they stuck it out ‘till
12.30 - definitely made of hardy stuff!
“No working machinery, etc was on display or in action for obvious reasons. The BBQ actually happened and there were the usual displays / sales in the comfort of the hall. All in all, the flag was flown for the Australian motoring movement. Well done by all participants!”
Museum of Printing invited to exhibit at Printing Expo
THE Penrith Museum of Printing was invited to exhibit at the PacPrint printing Expo, at Olympic Park, from 2025th May. Museum volunteers will be demonstrating ancient printing technology, in conjunction with PACPIC latest print technology.
Grahame Elphick reports “We have sent a 1770’s Common Press, which was invented by Benjamin Franklin, President of America. He invented this press using his own plans. He
owned a newspaper and used the common press to produce it.
“He never patented the press, as he wanted it to be available to the common man, hence the name Common Press. It was made out of wood. A friend of our Museum, Mr. Germyn, who lived on the South Coast of NSW, obtained the plans and actually built the press, in wood, and had all metal parts made, historically correct, by a blacksmith. We have the press amongst our Museum collection of letterpress printing machines.
“Also at the Expo is an 1841 Columbian Press, which printed the ‘Carcoar Chronicle’ newspaper from
BY NOEL ROWSELL
Some of the vehicles on display at the National Motoring Heritage Day. Photos courtesy of My Car Club NSW
BY NOEL ROWSELL
Photos from the PacPrint printing exp. Photos courtesy of Graham Elphick
1872 – 1939. It arrived in Sydney in 1841 and travelled by bullock cart over the Blue Mountains to Carcoar, to print their newspaper.”
ORCHARD HILLS
VETERINARY HOSPITAL
Ph 4736 2027
49 Wentworth Road, Orchard Hills
Pets Are Family: What the new rental laws mean for pet owners in NSW
BY KELLIE TICKNER, ORCHARD HILLS VETERINARY HOSPITAL ADMINISTRATOR
AS of May 19, 2025, important changes to rental laws in New South Wales have made it easier for tenants to keep pets in their homes. These changes reflect what many already believe—pets are more than just animals; they’re beloved members of the family. For renters, this is a positive shift that recognises the emotional bond between people and their pets.
Whilst tenants must still request permission from their landlord to keep a pet, the process is now clearer and more balanced. Landlords are required
to respond to a written request within 21 days. If they don’t respond within that time frame, permission is automatically granted. Refusals must be based on valid reasons, such as a lack of fencing, unsuitable space, or welfare concerns. Blanket “no pets” policies and “no pets” rental ads are no longer permitted.
Landlords can still set reasonable conditions related to pet ownership— such as requiring carpets to be professionally cleaned at the end of a lease or asking tenants to repair pet-related damage. Open, respectful communication between both parties is encouraged, and any conditions must be fair and appropriate to the type of pet and property.
These new laws not only give renters more freedom but also highlight the need for responsible pet ownership. In NSW, all cats and dogs must be microchipped by 12 weeks of age and registered by six months (cats 4 months) under the Companion Animals Act 1998. Microchipping is not just a legal step—it’s vital in helping lost pets find their way back home.
Desexing is also encouraged and often necessary for discounted lifetime registration. It helps reduce the number of unwanted litters, supports better pet health, and lowers the burden on animal shelters.
Responsible ownership also means being considerate of others and caring
for your pet’s well-being. Renters should manage pet noise, prevent property damage, clean up waste, and ensure their pets receive proper food, clean water, regular exercise, mental stimulation, and access to veterinary care.
Tenants who have a recognised assistance animal are not required to seek landlord approval under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992. However, landlords should still be informed and provided with relevant accreditation when available.
These updated tenancy laws are a welcome step forward, recognising the value and joy pets bring to people’s lives. With clear guidelines and shared responsibility, both renters and landlords can work together to create pet-friendly living environments. After all, pets are family—and now, the law is catching up with that truth.
For all your pet care needs, contact Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 4736 2027.
Looking for adoptive parents and forever home
FTilly is a stunning,
Meet Koda, a vibrant and friendly canine companion eager to become a part of your family. Whether he’s wagging his tail at passersby or greeting everyone with a joyful bark, Koda’s charismatic personality is sure to light up any room. His alertness and intelligence make him the ideal partner for a family looking for an active and engaging pet.
Daily exercise is essential for Koda, who thrives in environments where he can run, play, and explore the great outdoors. Whether it’s a game of fetch in the park or a leisurely stroll through the neighborhood, Koda is more than ready for any adventure you have in store. With Koda by your side, you’ll share countless moments of companionship as you embark on new adventures together.
Adoption Fee: $99 Age: 1 Year and 1 Month Breed: Siberian Husky Cross Mixed Sex: Male
At just 12 weeks of age, Osaka is still very much a young kitten and will need to be an inside companion and receive the love and care she deserves.
If you can offer this gorgeous girl a home she’s waiting to meet you! Adoption Fee: $99 Age: 12 Weeks
Domestic Short Hair Sex: Female
RIENDS of Hawkesbury Companion Animal Shelter seek the “extras” for the dogs and cats in care at Hawkesbury Pound. They also visit the pound each week and take photographs and temperament tests of the animals to
post online and promote the animals. They upload their images and opinions of these animals to Facebook, Twitter and PetRescue. To follow them, look them up on facebook and twitter.
Biennale of Sydney comes to Penrith
IN a prestigious and exciting first, Penrith Regional Gallery has been invited to join the 25th Biennale of Sydney in 2026 as one of five Exhibition Partner venues across Sydney, showing work by Australian and international artists.
The 25th Biennale of Sydney, titled Rememory, will be presented free to the public from 14 March to 14 June 2026 across five venues: Penrith Regional Gallery (PRG), White Bay Power Station, Art Gallery of NSW, Campbelltown Arts Centre and Chau Chak Wing Museum, University of Sydney. Artistic Director of the Biennale’s 25th edition is Hoor Al Qasimi, President and Director of Sharjah Art Foundation, the independent public arts organisation she founded in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in 2009. She has been Director of the UAE’s Sharjah Biennial since 2002, was appointed International Biennial Association President in 2017, and curated the critically acclaimed Sharjah Biennial 15 in 2023.
Established in 1973, the Biennale of Sydney is the third oldest art biennial in the world after Venice and São Paulo and the largest exhibition of its kind in Australia. It provides a constantly evolving platform for art and ideas and is recognised for commissioning and presenting innovative, thoughtprovoking art from Australia and around the globe. Since it began, the Biennale has commissioned and presented exceptional works of art by more than 2,400 Australian and international artists from more than 130 countries.
Hoor Al Qasimi said: “Sydney has a multicultural community at its core, with people from different cultures from across the world choosing and calling this vibrant city as their home. I’m interested in exploring the multifaceted cultures and perspectives here, working with local artists and communities, as well as bringing new voices to the Biennale. It is an honour and privilege to be nominated and then
selected as Artistic Director of the 25th Biennale of Sydney, which I have been visiting for over a decade now.”
Penrith Regional Gallery Director Toby Chapman is looking forward to this new chapter in Penrith’s cultural story. “It’s wonderful that Hoor Al Qasimi, one of the world’s most highly regarded curators, has selected our Gallery as a Biennale Exhibition Partner and is inspired by the possibilities she sees here. This will bring a significant new audience to PRG and Penrith as a whole, and offer creative opportunities for local artists. This announcement comes at a time when the Gallery’s profile and reach is rapidly rising, with a series of major exhibitions, increased visitor numbers and significant local and national media coverage.”
Mayor of Penrith, Cr Todd Carney said: “To be invited to join the 25th Biennale of Sydney in 2026 is a major
development for Penrith and Western Sydney, with the much-loved Penrith Regional Gallery as an exhibition partner, one of only a handful of venues invited to participate.
“This puts Penrith on the global stage for arts and culture as the Biennale is one of the most prestigious and longest-running international art events. It will bring artists and visitors from around the world, many who may not be familiar with our vibrant city, beautiful setting and cultural offerings. This new opportunity will benefit not only the Gallery, but the wider Penrith community as more audiences discover the many different attractions of this area, and reasons to return.”
About the Biennale of Sydney
Since it began in 1973, the Biennale of Sydney has become one of the leading international contemporary art events. It plays an indispensable
role in Australia’s engagement with the world, and in the cultural life of the nation. The Biennale presents the most dynamic contemporary art from around the globe in venues across Sydney with exhibitions that ignite and surprise people, sparking dialogue, cultivating connections and inspiring action through engaging, shared arts experiences. The Biennale of Sydney amplifies the voices of artists and tells the stories of our local and global communities, driving momentum for lasting cultural change.
25th Biennale of Sydney Rememory 14 March – 14 June 2026
Exhibition Opening Night: Saturday 14 March, 6-8pm, free entry
Penrith Regional Gallery, Home of The Lewers Bequest 86 River Road, Emu Plains (02) 4735 1100 penrithregionalgallery.com.au
Curator Hoor Al Qasimi has selected Penrith Regional Gallery for her 25th Biennale of Sydney program. Photo: Daniel Boud
Penrith Regional Gallery Cafe and Garden.
Penrith Regional Gallery, main gallery.
Legends of
JANET MCKENZIE
BY NOEL ROWSELL
JANET McKenzie (Penrith) is celebrating her 50th year of nursing, which began at the Fairfield District Hospital in 1975.
Janet currently lives and works in the Penrith area where she is employed with Community Health in Child and Family Health Nursing.
She started nursing in February, 1975 at the Fairfield District Hospital, now the site of Karitane in Carramar.
“Nursing has changed quite a lot in 50 years – training was hospital-based and followed a military-style model,” said Janet. “We addressed staff by their titles, stood when senior staff entered the room, and bed-making was treated as a lesson in precision and perfection.
“We first-year nurses were required to live in the staff quarters, which created a strong sense of routine. We felt a thrill of advancement when we climbed the ladder to second year!
“After the completion of my training, I worked for 12 months as a Registered Nurse (RN) and all RN’s were addressed as ‘Sister’. I went on to study Midwifery and, from 1979 - 2002, I worked in that field – a time filled with incredibly meaningful work and lifelong learning.
“During the 90’s, I found that more and more Registered Nurses were university trained. Wanting to stay current and to expand my knowledge, I went on to complete a Bachelor of Health / Primary Healthcare whilst working part-time as a Midwife.
“In 2002, I made the move into Community Child and Family Health Nursing. This
Janet MacKenzie 50 years of nursing.
the Nepean
opportunity allowed me to move away from the medical model, focusing on Primary Healthcare and providing support to new parents.
“Today, I continue my work in Community Child and Family Health Nursing, and it has been a privilege to adapt and grow with the profession over the past 50 years. Whilst so much has changed, the heart of Nursing –compassion, connection and care – remains the same.”
Janet’s colleagues describe her as grounded, generous, and deeply committed to her community. Her 50-year legacy is a rare and powerful example of dedication, adaptability, and care.
Congratulations, Janet—and thank you for five remarkable decades of service.
Janet McKenzie was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Kerrie Davies.
If you know a local legend, send us a nomination at nepeannews@aol.com
ALITTLE over a month out
from its official launch on July 1, we’re learning more about the federal battery rebate every day - and like any good local solar provider, I promised to keep the community informed. So, here’s the update you’ve all been waiting for!
In case you missed my last writeup, the $2.3 billion Cheaper Home Batteries Program is a government
Jim’s Gems
initiative designed to help Australian households and small businesses with the cost of installing a battery storage system. The rebate will be delivered as an upfront discount, and while the final amount will vary based on a few factors, eligible home and business owners can expect to save around 30% on their investment in renewable energy.
Why consider a battery?
First and foremost, it can help you save more and stress less when it comes to electricity bills. If you’ve already got solar, you’ll know how effective it is but a battery takes things to the next level. It allows you to store the energy your panels produce but don’t use, so you can tap into it later and reduce how much power you
need to buy from the grid.
Beyond boosting your energy independence and efficiency, a good-quality battery also supports environmental sustainability. And with the rebate, it’s now more affordable to future-proof your home or business.
So, how much will the rebate be?
After administrative fees and charges, the subsidy is likely to sit around $330 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), so a typical 10kWh battery would be eligible for a discount of $3,300.
Even better the government is currently working on making the federal rebate compatible with the NSW Peak Demand Reduction Scheme (PDRS) rebate, which could boost your savings even further.
Now, a few eligibility details we
know so far:
• Batteries must have a usable capacity between 5kWh and 50kWh (systems larger than this can still claim the maximum).
• They can be installed to a system with or without a battery already.
• They must appear on the Clean Energy Council’s approved list.
• They need to be capable of connecting to a Virtual Power Plant (VPP) but you don’t need to opt in unless you want to.
• Installers must be batteryaccredited.
If you’d like to learn more, feel free to reach out to our friendly team on 4760 0809. We’d be happy to confirm your eligibility and help you estimate your potential savings!
More places available in innovative jobs program for women
APPLICATIONS are now open for the 2025 Future Women (FW) Jobs Academy – an innovative pre-employment initiative designed to help women overcome career challenges and connect them with employers.
The Minns Labor Government invested $5.8 million as part of an election promise to support 1,000 women to be part of FW Jobs Academy.
The program is already showing results with nearly 75 per cent of the 2024 participants now actively looking for work or applying for further study, and 85 per cent reporting they now feel well-equipped to search for work.
Flexible, free and online, FW Jobs Academy is a year-long program that equips women with the skills, networks and confidence they need to re-enter the workforce following a career break. The program offers a curated mix of learning, mentoring and community to assist participants navigate evolving job search tools, employer expectations and workplace environments.
The NSW Government is focused on supporting women who face intersecting barriers to securing employment and career progression through FW Jobs Academy. This includes women from the following communities:
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, who are prioritised
and accepted on an ‘if not why not’ basis
• Women from culturally diverse backgrounds
• Women living with disability
• Women living in regional, rural or remote areas.
Jobs Academy is delivered by FW (formerly Future Women), an Australian-based organisation that was founded in NSW. FW’s programs help women succeed in finding work, building their careers and securing their economic futures. Since launching in 2021, the Jobs Academy program has helped thousands of women to return to work and thrive.
The 2025 program will commence in early August 2025. For more information and to apply, visit: Future Women Jobs Academy | NSW Government
“FW Jobs Academy is solving two challenges simultaneously. Helping NSW women overcome the barriers they face in finding meaningful work
and achieving financial security and, at the same time, helping employers access an untapped talent pool,” said Minister for Women Jodie Harrison.
“By supporting more NSW women to return to work, the Minns Government is not only empowering women to succeed but addressing critical skills gaps in industries that will drive the future prosperity of our state.
“FW Jobs Academy is helping to unlock the full potential of NSW’s skilled workforce, boosting women’s workforce participation and securing their economic futures.”
Managing Director and cofounder of FW Jobs Academy Helen McCabe said hundreds of thousands of Australian women would like to return to work but can face multiple and intersecting barriers to paid employment.
“Jobs Academy works because we recognise women as experts in their own lives and, with their input,
we’re providing the right balance of education, empowerment and connection to achieve real results.”
Sydney-based Fran Bowron joined Jobs Academy after spending almost a decade looking for ongoing work. Originally from Canberra, Ms Bowron has a strong background in program management. However, after relocating to NSW and moving away from her professional network, she struggled to find ongoing paid work.
She says joining Jobs Academy was a turning point in her job search journey, keeping her from giving up when faced with setbacks.
“Jobs Academy keeps you focused because it can be very disheartening the whole job search process is very disheartening and so you sometimes want to walk away,” Fran said.
“But doing the Jobs Academy process, it just kind of keeps it warm, keeps it top of mind, and keeps the change of mindset to what’s possible rather than what’s not.”
Fran Bowron
Cuddle bed gifts the ultimate connection for palliative care patients
MOUNT DRUITT Palliative Care Unit, renowned for its exceptional care, has just been improved through the addition of a ‘cuddle bed’.
The purchase of the specialised bed, valued at $24,500, was funded through the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership program and the Better Foundation.
Health Minister Ryan Park visited the Western Sydney centre, joined by local Mount Druitt MP, Edmond Atalla, who organised the donation.
“Palliative care brings humanity and dignity for both patients and the people who love them,” Minister Ryan said.
It was a privilege to help fund a new state of the art ‘Cuddle Bed’ for their unit, that can be adjusted by patients with ease and allow loved ones to be physically close with each other, Minister Ryan said. “ “
The Minister spoke with attentive staff, who were eager to showcase their brilliant treatment and secondto-none quality of care.
Local MP Edmond Atalla understands the impact of care, especially at the end-of-life stage.
“The new cuddle bed at the Mt Druitt Hospital Palliative Care Unit
brings warmth and closeness to families during life’s most difficult moments,” Mr Attala said.
“It offers a sense of home in a place where it’s needed most.”
His connection to the centre is very much a personal one, with his own mother receiving palliative care at the same centre some time ago.
“The cuddle bed at Mt Druitt Hospital Palliative Care Unit offers families the precious gift of closeness, allowing them to share comfort and connection in their loved one’s final moments,” Mr Atalla said.
The ‘cuddle bed’ is one of the ways connection is at the heart of care and comfort.
The patient controls and bed lowering capacity promotes autonomy and independence by allowing the patient more control and greater independence where able.
The bed extender widens the bed to allow more space for family members
to lay together, a simple but priceless joy.
The Better Foundation Chair Emeritus Professor Peter Zelas AM said, “We are deeply grateful to the Member for Mount Druitt, Mr Edmond Atalla MP and the Health Minister Ryan Park for their support of the Foundation and Mount Druitt Hospital.
“The cuddle bed is a priceless gift for families and their loved ones receiving end-of-life care at the Palliative Care Unit at Mount Druitt Hospital,” Professor Zelas said.
Family members can snuggle with their loved one who is receiving endof-life care, and they can provide each other with physical and emotional comfort, Peter said. “ “
The state-of-the-art cuddle bed comes with an inbuilt weight scale, a multi-level fall prevention system, and many other user-friendly features.
The cuddle bed was made possible thanks to the kindness and generosity of donors, organised by the Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospital Foundation.
Help us continue creating spaces like The Better Foundation and support more families across the hospital.
Please consider making a donation to Better Foundation: https:// betterfoundation.org.au/
The power of lived experience
“We were scared. We were confused. We kept thinking, ‘What could we have done better as parents?’ ‘What can we do now to help him feel safe and well?’ We felt guilty and helpless.”
MARK* and his partner were shocked to notice signs that his son Ben* had been selfharming.
“We didn’t see any warning signs,” Mark says. “Up to age 12, Ben was a bubbly kid. He played community sport. He had a good friendship group. Then the pandemic came. He couldn’t see his friends in person. And when he turned 13, there were the regular challenges of that age.
“When we discovered what was happening, I thought, ‘This seems so out of character for Ben.’ But I realise now that any young person can fall
back on these coping mechanisms.”
Young people like Ben are feeling increasingly isolated and unsure how to cope. Every year since the pandemic, 34% more young people have shown up at hospitals for selfharm and suicidal thinking.
“Black Dog Institute is taking the right approach and making better mental health more accessible. I wish we’d had their help for Ben at the time,” says Mark.
Thankfully, Ben was able to get the mental health support he needed and gained strength through his experience. Mark hopes that other parents will take hope from his story.
Ben’s mental health has improved, but how much better would it be to prevent young people like him from reaching the point where they feel self-harm is their only option to manage their pain?
* real names have been changed for privacy purposes
Specialised ‘cuddle bed’ expands, allowing loved ones the comfort of cuddles and embrace towards the end of life.
The Father of Federation
By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.
SIR Henry Parkes was born to a farming family on the 27th May 1815 at Stoneleigh, Warwickshire in England. He was the youngest of seven children to Thomas Parkes and his wife Martha (Faulconbridge). Thomas was a tenant farmer at the Stoneleigh Abbey Estate. Forced off their farm in 1823 by debt the Parkes family moved to Glamorganshire, then around 1825 they settled in Birmingham where Thomas was a gardener and oddjob man. Henry’s formal education was in his own words “very limited and imperfect” and he briefly attended Stoneleigh parish school and later joined the Birmingham Mechanics’ Institute. As a boy he was obliged to help in supporting the family and worked as a road labourer then in a brick pit and ropewalk before being apprenticed to John Holding who was a bone and ivory turner in Moseley Street. In July 1836 at Edgbaston Parish Church he married Clarinda a 23-year-old daughter of butcher John Varney. In 1838 Henry took Clarinda to London in search of better prospects where they survived a few weeks by pawning his tools and were determined to leave for New South Wales. Henry assured his Birmingham family of his certainty of making his fortune and coming back to fetch all of them. They sailed from Gravesend in March the next year in 1839 on the “Strathfieldsaye” as assisted immigrants and arrived in Sydney in July 1839 with a newly infant born at sea two days earlier. Henry found work as a labourer on Sir John Jamison’s Regentville estate but after six months returned to Sydney to work in Thomas Burdekin’s iron-mongery and Peter Russell’s brass-foundry. In 1840 he became a tidewaiter in the New South Wales Customs Department, slowly buying tools and in 1845 he set himself up where the Old Police Headquarters stood as an ivory turner and importer of fancy goods in Phillip and Hunter Street in Sydney. He opened branches in Maitland and Geelong but both failed and by 1850 he was in financial difficulties and writing to his wife of culpable neglect in his business in Sydney. He had by then become deeply involved in literary and political activities attractions which highlighted the dullness of a business life. Henry leased “Werrington House” from 1860 to 1871. His failure to pay the rent on time was not appreciative of the Lethbridge Family owners. In early May 1861 Henry accepted an invitation from Sir Charles Cowper to tour England as a Government lecturer on emigration at a salary of £1,000 and leaving his family in poverty on their rented farm at Werrington. He was knighted in 1877 and was instrumental in the naming of the “Commonwealth of Australia” for the new nation. In 1888 Clarinda died at their place of residence called “Hampden Villa” in Balmain. She had been very ill for some time but appeared to be much better and she also took some part in conversation and occasionally appeared cheerful. Henry was with her at 1 o’clock and about that time she complained of feeling much worse and was assisted to bed. In the evening Henry had business with his Excellency the Governor and a little before 10 o’clock he
proceeded to the Colonial Secretary’s Office and not thinking of any danger or cause of alarm in his wife’s condition he decided to remain for the night so that he might get to work early the next morning. So, unaware of the possibility of any serious turn in his wife’s illness that was taking place at home and with Dr MacLaurin in attendance, Henry was not sent for. Clarinda’s body was taken to the burial ground at Faulconbridge where the remains of their oldest son was interred some years ago with the funeral being strictly private and confined only to the members of the family. Henry faced immense personal turmoil following the death of Clarinda and quietly married Eleanor Dixon in Sydney in February 1889. She was born at Wooller, Northumberland in England and the youngest child of Thomas and Mary Dixon. After her father’s death in 1869 she came to Australia with the rest of the family. Lady Parkes was considerably younger than her husband and she lived a quiet and peaceful life. Later it was discovered that she had been suffering from an incurable decease and she died at “Kenilworth” Johnstone-street in Annandale in 1895 and was buried at St Annes Church cemetery in Ryde. That same year at St John’s church Parramatta Henry married Julia Lynch, born in Ireland in 1872 who was a 23-year-old former cook and housekeeper for Sir Henry when they married. Henry fathered 18 children. He died in 1896 of pneumonia before Federation came into being at Canberra in 1901 and is buried in the family grave at Faulconbridge, NSW.
Sources: Australian Dictionary of Biography, Obituaries Australia website, Find a Grave.
PS - This is my last History Page. Thanks to Kerrie and the team I was able to let the surrounding people of our district know the heritage that is here and those who came before us. I hope you enjoyed the pages as I did researching it. The society Facebook page will still be active for you to enjoy.
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.
Kingswood Florist, Creative Balloons, Penrith Florist and St Marys Florist • 4732 2182 • St Marys 9623 4589
Photo of Henry courtesy of Archive Office of NSW.
Mark the beginning of winter at City Park Penrith!
PENRITH City Council is hosting an exciting event, Winter Solstice!
Over the June long weekend, City Park will transform into a winter wonderland! Council’s latest event will host a range of activities, including an authentic ice-skating rink, activities for young children and teenagers, entertainment and have a variety of food offerings at restaurants open along High Street, Penrith.
Penrith Mayor Todd Carney is thrilled that this latest event will take place in the heart of Penrith, providing an opportunity for community members and visitors to enjoy the winter festivities and our vibrant CBD.
“This fantastic event will allow families, young people and groups of friends the chance to experience the nightlife of Penrith, with lots of fun winter themed activities to enjoy,” Cr Carney said.
“By supporting our local businesses, I encourage residents to try the restaurants that will be open along High Street in the Penrith CBD during the evening.
“I’d love to see as many of you out and about enjoying everything that Penrith has to offer after dark,” said Cr Carney.
A range of delicious food will be available at local restaurants offering tasty treats and dinner delights as well as incredible live performances throughout the long weekend.
The ice-skating rink will be
SUDOKU: HARD
INSTRUCTIONS
Fill the grid so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9 with no duplicates
open from 12pm to 9pm (Friday to Sunday) and 9am to 4pm (Monday) – secure your ticket at www. penrithwintersolstice.starsonice. com.au/tickets/
You won’t want to miss this exciting long weekend event! Mark your calendars as Winter Solstice will be occurring in City Park, Penrith from Friday 6 June to Sunday 8 June from 4pm to 9pm and Monday 9 June from 10am to 3pm.
To find out more, visit penrith.city/ events
The Cavalcade of History and Fashion presents 1940s: A Decade of Change
Sunday 13th July 2025, 2pm
Penrith Regional Gallery 86 River Road, Emu Plains
Cost: $35 Includes afternoon tea
Bookings and payment essential before Sunday 6th July.
Pay by cash or credit card
Ph 4735 1100 10am-3:30pm weekdays only or online www.penrithregionalgallery.com.au
Optional dressing 1940s style.
1948 Pontiac available for pre show photographs between 1pm and 2pm.
From Rationing to a new freedom in how life was lived and what was worn.
No matter what the circumstances fashion is everything. You can ration clothes but you cannot ration fashion.
A Cavalcade presentation is a themed talk and includes examples from the collection with commentary. Items are carried amongst the audience, allowing a closer look at pieces from the collection.
The Cavalcade of History and Fashion is an organisation with a collection of original historic gowns and accessories with provenance, dating from the 1700s, preserving Australia’s social and fashion history. www.thecavalcade.org
THE FRIENDS OF
OUT N ABOUT
To advertise in Nepean News or request your event to be added call Malama on 0416 203 777 OR EMAIL: sales@nepeannews.com.au with Malama
Get ready for Ngana Birrung!
Penrith Council has got a new date for their stellar line-up of First Nations hip hop artists to come together for an all-ages concert at Sherringham Reserve, Cranebrook on Friday 27 June from 3pm to 7pm.
Admission is FREE
Find out more at https://brnw. ch/21wSUdZ #nganabirrung #penrithcity
Fernhill, located on Mulgoa Road, was built by Edward Cox in 1814, and remained in the Cox family until it was sold in 1885.
It was privately owned by various people until 2018, when it was purchased by the NSW Government to become part of the Greater Sydney Parklands.
Fernhill can be visited by the public every Sunday. There is a 2.6km walking loop that covers the grounds and the exterior of the homestead. Entry is free but bookings are essential at www.greatersydneyparklands.nsw. gov.au/visit/fernhill-estate
For more photographs like this, visit Penrith City Libraries’ Local Archives Search at library.penrith.city
BY ROLAND MELOSI
Sydney Zoo’s new cheetah boys Mwindaji, Balozi, and Moyo are officially settled into their new habitat, and it shows! With playful sprints, curious exploring, and those signature cheetah smiles, they’re already melting hearts.
A Night Of Drama & Comedy
RUBY Productions presents “A night of drama and comedy” that will be performed at John Lees Centre.
PERFORMANCE DATES
Friday 30th May 2025 at 7pm Friday 6th June 2025 at 7pm Saturday 7th June 2025 at 7pm Saturday 14th June 2025 at 2pm and 7pm
SORRY WRONG NUMBER
Written by Lucille Fletcher
Directed by Anthony Brown
A mystery thriller, the tale of a neurotic invalid, whose only contact with the outside world is her phone. Over this one night, because of a crossed wire, she hears plans for a murder, which turns out to be her own. Her frantic efforts to enlist help through the only means at her disposal, her growing terror and realisation of the truth, and (along the
way) the hints about her own life and personality she lets drop, make this a full character portrayal not only of herself but of the unseen murderer.
LAST TANGO IN LITTLE
GRIMLEY
Written by David Tristram
Directed by Hayley Ramsay
Membership of the local amateur drama society has dwindled to four. Time for dramatic action. There’s only one thing that sells tickets these days - sex. But how will the locals react to the promise of a sizzling sex comedy? All is revealed in this fastpaced comedy of an Am-Dram in trouble.
THE HERO
Written by Arthur Kopits
Directed by Rebecca Matthews
The Hero is indeed quite enigmatic
not absurd and accordingly, critics regard it as an insignificant joke, a joke not even worth the effort of interpretation. Critic Jurgen Wolter deals with Kopit’s playlet as a critique of the common ideology of heroism “after a long journey through the word”
Wheelchair access
price is $30 for adults and $25 concession.
CROSSWORD
To book tickets go to www.trybooking.com/CZIPE
To reserve tickets email rubyproductions99@gmail.com
“A NIGHT OF DRAMA AND COMEDY” will be performed at John Lees Centre, Level 1, 15 Evan Street; Penrith.
www.rubyproductions.com.au
Leonay GC hosts charity golf day for
BY NOEL ROWSELL
LEONAY GC held its annual Col Roffe Memorial Day on Saturday 10th May, in support of Cancer Research and Support Groups.
Mr Les Knox, President of the golf committee, said, “In 1976, Leonay GC decided to run an annual Charity Day, recognising the amazing work carried out by Cancer Research and support groups, with proceeds from the day going to either cancer research or a cancer support group.
“Initially, the day was known as the Wal James Memorial Day, and in more recent years, it has been the Col Roffe Memorial Day. Wal James was Secretary/Manager of Leonay GC in 1975. Col Roffe was made a Life
Member of the golf club in recognition of the work he carried out as a member of the golf committee for 16 years, the last 15 years as Vice President.
During recent years, this golf day has been held in support of the Nepean Blue Mountains Prostate Cancer Support Group. David Wilkinson, President of Nepean Blue Mountains Prostate Cancer Support Group (NBMPCSG) thanked Leonay GC for running the charity day in support of their group and presented Mr Knox with a ‘Certificate of Appreciation’.
At the monthly meeting of Nepean Blue Mountains Prostate Cancer Support Group, which is held on the 3rd Monday of each month at Leonay GC, Mr Knox presented NBMPCSG Treasurer Graeme Renshaw with a cheque for $2,618.28, being the proceeds from the golf day.
Leonay GC president Les Knox presents the cheque to Graeme Renshaw from NBMPCSG. Photo supplied
2025 HSRCA Sydney Classic returns to SMSP
THE committee of the Historic Sports and Racing Car Association of NSW invites drivers and spectators to join them for their annual winter spectacular at Sydney Motorsport Park (SMSP), to be held over the King’s Birthday long weekend, the 7th and 8th of June,
The meeting will offer races for all of the usual fifth category vehicles, as well as speed events for vehicles
manufactured up to the 1990s and invited cars deemed compatible with those groups.
For our 2025 meeting, HSRCA is pleased to feature the iconic Group C & A Australian touring cars of the Heritage Touring Cars series, along with HQ Racing NSW and MG Racing Australia.
The committee is pleased to welcome HQ Racing NSW back, after they first joined up at a HSRCA meeting at the Sydney Classic last year. Coming out of Tasmania in 1989, HQ Racing is a category for
Holden HQ four-door sedans, running 3.3L 6-cylinder engines. The HQ Holdens are a great fit for the HSRCA historic race meetings, and we look forward to seeing them in action on track once more.
The Heritage Touring Cars series will contest the third round of their 2025 championship at the Sydney Classic, reaching the mid-point of their competition. These are the cars that many of us grew up watching racing around Bathurst, in the hands of legendary drivers like Peter Brock, Jim Richards, Mark Skaife and more,
and they’re raced with the same vigour today as back then.
We are also thrilled to welcome MG Racing Australia back in 2025.
The series comprises a huge range of race and sporting MGs, from the mighty 5.6L MGB GT V8, complete with full aerodynamic package, to works MGZTs, a British Touring Car Championship MGZS, the only factory MGSV-R in existence - and more.
We look forward to seeing everyone at SMSP for an excellent meeting at the 2025 Sydney Classic.
Blacktown Red Belly Warriors hosts its annual rugby league knockout tournament
THE Blacktown Red Belly Warriors (BRBW) are seeking team nominations for the 2025 BRBW Knockout, which will be held on 20th September at The Kingsway, St Marys.
The BRBW Knockout is the only Sydney knockout tournament played before the annual Koori Knockout, which will be held in Tamworth this year over the Long Weekend 3-6th October.
The 2025 Koori Knockout is one of the largest gatherings of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the country, uniting players, supporters and spectators in a
celebration of sport, culture, and community.
The Koori Knockout has grown to be one of the largest Indigenous sporting events in the world. In 2024, the tournament featured an extraordinary 138 teams, including current and former NRL and NRLW stars, showcasing the immense talent and passion within First Nations communities. The event attracted a live audience of 30,000 attendees and reached an impressive 500,000 viewers through television broadcasts, underlining its importance to the wider Australian public.
The BRBW Knockout is the perfect warm-up opportunity for teams hoping to play well in Tamworth,
providing match conditions to prepare both players and officials prior to the national event.
Entry enquiries for the BRBW
event can be found on Instagram @ blacktownredbellywarriors, email blacktownredbellywarriors@gmail. com or by phone 0414 798 063.
BY NOEL ROWSELL
Action from the 2024 HSRCA Sydney Classic. Photos by Noel Rowsell
BY NOEL ROWSELL
Action from the 2024 Men’s and U11’s Grand Finals
Western Sydney golfers prize winning runs
BY NOEL ROWSELL
WESTERN
Sydney golfers have been in the headlines in several recent Interstate, Vardon (men), Jean Derrin (women) and Senior Order of Merit tournaments.
David Stevenson (Leonay GC) won the Bardwell Valley Senior (over 50 years), which was played at Bardwell Valley on 12th May. Played as a Stableford event, David shot a 2-over-par 64 to win the Gross with 34 points and the Nett (Lester Peterson Cup) with 38 points. David obviously has a fondness for the Bardwell Valley course, having also won the Bardwell Valley Open in 1993 and 1996.
Former Australian and NSW representative Lester Peterson also played in the Senior event and finished tied for 6th, whilst Greg Climpson (Lynwood Golf & Country Club) finished tied for 18th Gross and 18th Nett, in addition to finishing 5th (Nett) in Over 65’s.
Local junior golfer Ti Fox (Richmond / Concord GC) has been selected by Golf Australia to play in the ‘Uswing Mojing Junior World Golf Championships, which will be held in San Diego (USA) over 5-11th July.
Concord GC head professional David Northey (Penrith) said, “The tournament is the largest junior event in the world and we are honoured to have one of our own playing in it!”
The Uswing Mojing Junior World Golf Championships was founded in 1968 and are held in San Diego, California (USA) each year, currently in July, and conducted by the San Diego Junior Golf Association.
The inaugural tournament numbered 475 entrants, from 20 US states and six other countries. By 2003, there were 1,040 participants, from 43 US states and 45 other countries.
Ti also shot 71/75/73/73 to finish 10th in the Port Phillip Open Amateur in Victoria over 15-18th May, thus qualifying for the Victorian Men’s Amateur Championship over 19-20th May. Kade Webber (Stonecutters Ridge / Concord GC) also made the cut in the Port Phillip Open Amateur, shooting 75/72/82/70 to finish in a tie for 23rd, but did not qualify for the Match Play.
Ti subsequently had a solid 3&1 win over Christopher Buckland (Foster GC, VIC) in the first round of the Match Play (round of 16), then lost his Quarter Final (round of eight) 2&1
Round Two of the Master Pennant
BY NOEL ROWSELL
ROUND two of the 2025 Golf NSW The Master Pennant was held on Sunday, with many matches declared as ties due to an inability to use particular courses following Sydney’s recent deluge.
Results were as follows: Division 1 (home teams first) - Dunheved 4-4 with St Michaels, Asquith 4.53.5 over Stonecutters Ridge, Penrith 5-3 over Cronulla, Twin Creeks down 5.5-2.5 against Oak Point; Division 2 - North Ryde 4-4 with Springwood, The Coast 7.5-0.5 over Lynwood; Division 3 - Fox Hills 4-4 with Kareela, Massey Park 7-1 over Richmond, Antill Park 6-2 over Glenmore Heritage Valley, Wallacia down 4.5-3.5 to Strathfield, Roseville 4-4 with Leonay.
Next week’s home games - Dunheved vs Cabramatta 11:10am, Stonecutters Ridge vs Cronulla 11:15am, Penrith vs Asquith 11:30am, Glenmore Heritage Valley vs Strathfield 10:00am, Leonay vs Brighton Lakes 11:00am.
Away games - Twin Creeks at Pennant Hills, Springwood at Woolooware, Lynwood at Marrickville, Fox Hills at Campbelltown, Richmond at Beverley Park, Wallacia at Antill Park.
The annual JNJG North vs South tournament was held at Castle Hill CC over 23-25th May, with South breaking an 8-year drought to claim a 15.5-8.5 victory.
Jessica Fog (Penrith GC) and Jake Thompson (Leonay GC) were both members of the North team. Jessica had wins in two of her three matches, partnering Jake in a 2-Ball 2+1 loss against Kobey Thomas and Libby Newcombe, before winning the Foursomes 2-up with Ava Prince, against Sage Laird and Libby, then winning her singles match 6+5 over Libby.
Jake partnered Skye Tse in the Foursomes, the pair losing 3+2 against Cooper Starkey and Henry Kanis, then fell 3+2 against Henry in the Singles.
against Port Phillip Open Amateur champion Josiah Edwards (Gosnell GC, WA) to finish tied 5th.
Matthew Fullerton (Richmond / Lynwood GCC) shot a fabulous score of 67 to finish 1st in the Bankstown Cup on 10th May, whilst Ti Fox (Richmond / Concord Golf Club) shot 70 to finish in a tie for 3rd. Alex Radevski (Twin Creeks GCC) had 73 to finish tied 11th.
Annabelle Elina (Stonecutters Ridge GC) won the Pymble Cup & Bronze Salver tournament at Pymble GC on 12th May with a 4-over-par 76; Evelyn Oram (Richmond GC) won the Bonnie Doon Women’s Open on 20th May, shooting 5-over-par in atrocious conditions but significantly, recording birdies on 4 of the par 5 holes, whilst fellow Richmond clubmate Sarah Meszaro finished 2nd in B Grade; Richmond GC Pro Shop employee Ryan Fletcher (Castle Hill CC) finished tied 3rd in the Woolooware Cup on 10th May; Jessica Fog (Penrith GC) finished 10th in The Lakes GC Cup & Bowl tournament on the 18th May.
The SRIXON NSW Mid Amateur Championship is due to be held at Tamworth and Longyard golf courses over 1-3 June, depending upon the current wet and wild weather affecting the NSW east coast.
The tournament is open to amateurs who are 30 years of age and over, as at the first day of play, with a GA handicap of 12.4 and under for men, or 20.4 for women. It is stroke play over three rounds of 18 holes.
There are 16 players from western Sydney entered this year, including Christopher Sitanto, Dean Clarke, Martin Hooper and Matthew Herring from Fox Hills, Kristopher Clelland, Mark Stone and Riley Judd from Lynwood, Liam Hausfield and Michael Elliott from Penrith, David Bishop and Josh Cook from Glenmore Heritage Valley, Jacob Carpenter and Mark Cadle from Stonecutters Ridge and Dillyn Burazin from Dunheved.
Ti Fox in action. Photo courtesy of Jimmy Emmanuel / Golf NSW
David Stevenson with the Lester Peterson Cup and in action. Photos by Noel Rowsell
Duane Orth (Penrith) in action against Cronulla.
Yandamonium
There are bears in there...
HOW good is rugby league! I mean really, I am not just talking about the on-field stuff, I mean ALL OF IT... It really is the gift that keeps giving. This time it’s the announcement of the Perth Bears as an expansion team. Grown men and grandfathers were in tears when the announcement was made on live television.
All going to script so far?
The Perth Bears are in!
You beauty!
But here’s the rub...there are already bears in Perth! A social club for gay men has been in existence in the city for 32 years. Bears Perth had a spike in interest in membership following the announcement, only for them to advise they are not the Perth Bears. Siri has some explaining to do! The question has to be asked, did the NRL and the bidding teams (WA Government / North Sydney) know there could be a conflict with the established club?
Look out, St Peter!
Infamous tennis father Damir Dokic died recently and it’s sure to be a tough time for those who organise the tennis tournaments in the sky. With a history of shall we say.... causing a ruckus at major championships, including the US Open where he was banned for six months for abusing officials, the encounter with St Peter would be interesting to say the least. We’d expect him to question whether the pearly gates are in fact made of pearls, before demanding to speak to God and making abusive threats to those around him. Death does however come with a range of mixed feelings and emotions, particularly with estranged family members such as his daughter Jelena. The darling of Australian tennis has been so candid about her relationship with her father in recent years it feels as though we are part of this at times troubled family. Jelena, now 42, took to Instagram to share the news of his passing.
“As you know my relationship with my father has been difficult and painful with a lot of history” she said. “Despite everything and no matter how hard, difficult and in the last 10 years even non existent our relationship and communication was, it is never easy losing a parent and a father even one you are estranged from.” She finished by thanking her support network for helping her navigate what she described as a difficult and complicated situation. She has created her own life and been a wonderful presence on our televisions during the summer of tennis and Australian Open.
Please think about it
I’ve noticed some, shall we say, questionable names getting around in world sport over probably the last decade. Now, if you’re going to be having children, PLEASE think about what you are going to call them and what it looks like in combination with your surname. We can’t all be called Prince!
The Olympics is a hotbed for these every four years and we all had a giggle when the Chinese synchronised divers Long Daoyi and Wang Zongyuan won gold in the 3m springboard event in Paris 2024. Long/Wang probably didn’t know any better at the time. Another Olympian with such a name is New Zealand hockey player Anita Punt (gambling responsibly). I really cannot wait until LA 2028.
See ya later
Panthers split road trip to Maitland in NBL1 East
BY NOEL ROWSELL
THE Penrith Panthers have split their road trip to Maitland on Saturday night, in Round 8 of the 2025 Mitsubishi Motors NBL1 East basketball competition.
The Panthers won the opening game of the night, with the women prevailing 68-65 over the Mustangs following a second half revival. The Penrith men however were below par offensively and defensively on the night, with the reigning premiers (Mustangs) dominating on their home court for a runaway 10150 victory.
Maitland led the women’s game 41-29 at half time and looked comfortable, before Penrith mounted its second half revival, winning the third term 20-10 and the final term 14-12 to level the scores at full time (63-63).
Penrith scored the first five points of a low-scoring overtime, which was still enough to see them come away with an important 3-point road win.
Mia Heide led the Panthers with a double-double of 24 points / 15 boards, ahead of Jordan Vasquez with 20 points / 9 boards. Teagan Edwards also impressed with 9 points, 7 boards, 4 assists and 2 crucial steals.
In the men’s game, the defending champions Maitland returned to the winner’s list in emphatic fashion with their 51-point win over the Panthers. Playing well below their best over the past two weeks, the reigning premiers were determined to make a statement from the outset and led 29-9 in the first quarter, 48-25 at half time and 73-38 at the final break in play.
Zeke Evans was the only Penrith player hit double figures, with 12 points / 11 boards.
The Panthers return home this Friday night to play the Bankstown Bruins and will be rank underdogs in both games, with both Bankstown teams recently bolstered by new recruits.
Australian representative Shyla Heal has signed with the Bruins women and made an immediate
impact, scoring 29 points, 13 boards, three assists and two steals on 10/18 shooting from the floor and shooting 8/8 at the foul line as the Bruins rolled reigning premiers, the Newcastle Falcons.
The Bruins men signed Sydney Kings NBL forward Jaylin Galloway three weeks back and he opened his account with a 37-point haul against the
Albury Wodonga Bandits.
The Panthers then travel to the Central Coast on Saturday night to play the Crusaders at the Breakers Basketball Stadium, Duffy Avenue, Terrigal. Friday night – Penrith vs Bankstown (women 6pm, men 8pm), Penrith Valley Regional Regional Sports Centre, Cambridge Park.
Jordan Vasquez and Zeke Evans in action this season - file photos by Noel Rowsell
WITH GREG YANDA
WINES
This week’s local businessman is a man who with his great mate Jonathan Green, came up with the idea of the Great Walk Foundation. His dad Ron Mulock was a famous and outstanding man, and now he is following in his father’s footsteps.
1. How long have you been a solicitor in Penrith? 40 years
2. Favourite Song? Has to be what the mighty Panthers walk out to every home game- Hells Bells.
3. Favourite place to watch sport? At any pub with my mates
4. Favourite Movie? Shawshank Redemption
5. If you weren’t a solicitor what would you be doing? I’d be a winemaker.
6. Favourite all-time TV series? Kin
7. What 3 famous people would you love to have a night out with? Nelson Mandela, The Obamas, and Mick Jagger
8. Favourite sport and athlete? Rugby League/ Nathan Cleary
9. Favourite band? Stereophonics
10. Death row meal? An eye fillet medium rare with 4 bottles of the best Pinot Noir there is!
WITH MARK GEYER
MARK ON THE
WITH MARK GEYER
THE GREAT WALK TURNS 18!
AT the end of 2006, Penrith Golf Pro Jonathan Green, and his great mate local solicitor
Mark Mulock were having a long lunch, when the discussion popped up on exactly what could they do to raise money for local charities that really needed funds.
“I reckon I could run to Katoomba” Greeny stated. “What if we walk to Orange?’ Mules asked. After to-ing and fro-ing they settled on “Why don’t we meet in the middle and walk to Bathurst?” And thus The Great Walk Foundation was spawned!
On the inaugural trek in 2007 there were 6 walkers who accepted the challenge. Greeny, Mules, Dave Crossman, Robbie Wearn, Darren Latty, and me. We started off from the Lapstone Hotel with one member of our road crew, the late great Jimmy Small, and headed up the mountain to cover the 160 kms between Blaxland and Bathurst.
By Springwood most of us couldn’t walk because of blisters. But we made it into Bathurst some 5 days later with every muscle and bone in our bodies feeling foreign to us all.
We quickly decided that from ‘now on’ we would start at Bathurst and finish at Blaxland (downhill). We also quickly learned that going forward to navigate such a walk we would need a lot more help, in particular a podiatrist and a physio, and “hey a doctor would be good too”! Enter Trent Baker, Sarah Green, Cam McInnes, and Tony Bowden.
In fact, the list of walkers has grown considerably over the years with many more local businessmen and women joining the team. Greg Nelson, Graeme O’Kell, Diane Azzopardi, and Sean Hogan to name but a few.
As the 18th edition of The Great Walk kicks off there has been 4 walkers who have completed every single edition of this marathon. Jonathan Green, Mark Mulock, Robbie Wearn, and Dave Crossman.
This year’s walk will be tainted with a touch of sadness after we lost the charismatic “Crossy” to a brain tumour last December. Crossy was the heartbeat of the Walk, being the first up in the morning to walk and the last to bed. Often amusing the locals along the way with a fit of laughter with his jokes, a dance move or 3 thrown in, as well as the occasional arm wrestle. He is going to be mighty missed.
So far the GWF has helped the following charities: Penrith Community Kitchen, Great Community Transport, The Haven,
start Co-op, Springwood Hospital Aged Care, Blue Mountains District Hospital, Riding for Disabled, Nepean Hospital Kids Ward, Westcare, The Luke Priddis Foundation, and many more. In fact just over $2 million has been raised for those who truly need the assistance.
The Great walk Foundation is a registered charity so please be encouraged to make a tax deductible donation to the Foundation. I’ll put up the bank details at the end of this yarn. The walk started on Monday the 26th with Bathurst to Tarana being the first leg. Then Tarana to Lithgow, Lithgow to Blackheath, Blackheath to Hazlebrook, then the walk home on Friday the 30th from Hazlebrook to the Lapstone Hotel.
This Friday night there will be a celebration at “The Lappo” for all the walkers and their families and friends that anyone is encouraged to attend. The awesome cover band “Nuthin Fancy” will play and the night will be a blast.
The Great Walk Foundation would also like to thank their sponsors Mulgoa Quarries, Penrith Waste services, Direct Accounting, and Equiptrade.
I want to take this opportunity in thanking the thousands over the years who have been generous enough to donate to the Great Walk with every single cent going to those charities that most need it.
We all hope to see you along the way in what is going to be another fantastic adventure of fun, focus, and soreness. If you wish to donate here are the bank details of the GWF.
NAB - BSB: 082 778
Acc: 81 203 8012
Or email info@greatwalkfoundation.com.au www.greatwalkfoundation.com.au
See you on the mountain….. Don’t forget, if you’re looking for a new car contact my great mate at Sinclair Hyundai, Toby Hughes.
MG (random Westie) OAM
Life
