Local award winners
NEPEAN Blue Mountains Health (NBMLHD) was admirably represented at this year’s Lindsay Awards, hosted by Federal Member for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh MP . The Lindsay Awards are an annual celebration recognising individuals and groups who make significant contributions to our community, honouring excellence across leadership, service, advocacy and innovation within the Lindsay electorate.
The District was strongly represented in the Health Advocates of the Year category, with five nominees:
- Professor Sam Orde and Professor Ian Seppelt, Intensive Care Unit, Nepean Hospital
- Dr Faraz Pathan, Cardiologist
- Matthew Russell, Director Mental Health
- Dr Kathryn Williams, Clinical Lead and Manager, Nepean Family Metabolic Health Service and HoD Endocrinology
In the Women in Leadership category, Linda Ora, Project Manager in End of Life and Palliative Care at Nepean Hospital, was nominated for her commitment to improving care and support for patients and families.
Congratulations to Professor Sam Orde and Professor Ian Seppelt, who were awarded Health Advocates of the Year in recognition of their outstanding contributions as Intensive Care clinicians and advocates.
The award was accepted on their behalf by Nepean Foundation Board Member, Greg Allchin.
Well done to all nominees and winners.
(L-R): G. Allchin, Dr K. Williams, Dr F. Pathan, L. Ora, J. Grassi, M. Russell.
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Chifley College students win annual awards
CLONTARF Academy
Awards night was held at Chifley College, Bidwill Campus, on Wednesday 19 November, celebrating academy members’ achievements this year.
Clontarf Foundation exists to improve the education, discipline, self-esteem, life skills and employment prospects of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young men and, by doing so, equip them to participate meaningfully in society.
Clontarf operates campuses at 162 host schools around Australia. “Our Awards nights are run in all academies at the end of the year to celebrate the boys’ great achievements at school within the Clontarf program,” said Adrian Doyle, Clontarf Foundation Employment Officer for Greater Sydney Region.
“It’s always a great night with school staff, community members, Clontarf partners and the boys parents all invited to help celebrate them. This year, 4,570 Clontarf Academy members were enrolled in NSW schools – with 370 Year 12 students – supported by 197 Clontarf staff members. Seven young men graduated from Bidwill campus this year.
Alumni remain in the Clontarf family, guiding and supporting current academy boys and programs, whilst they themselves are supported by Clontarf employment officers. Five academies, including Bidwill, are located at schools in the Mt Druitt area.
The Bidwill Clontarf Academy awards night was filled with acknowledgment, reflection, enjoyment and pride. The farewell to the graduating class was a highlight, and an emotionally charged moment for families, academy members, school staff and Clontarf staff.
Academy members played a key role in the event, serving as MCs and performers, and giving tours of academy facilities, whilst also handling behind-the-scenes tasks like setup, food preparation and promotion. As well as highlighting Clontarf boys’
achievements, these nights allow academy staff to thank the many individuals, groups and organisations who collaborate to support academy members’ educational, sporting, and employment journeys.
Chifley College Bidwill campus Clontarf Program lead Jake Foster said: “The Foundation does an amazing job supporting young men— helping them stay engaged in school, build confidence, learn life skills and prepare for meaningful futures. It’s about education, leadership, and strong community spirit. I was so proud to hand out these awards to the Bidwill boys.
“A massive thank you must go to Chifley College Bidwill Campus. They are, without a doubt, the biggest supporter of our program and the young men involved. Their dedication and commitment are the foundation that allows us to deliver these lifechanging opportunities.
Award winners: Kye Adams - Top Trainer Award; Cooper McDeed and Zowel Gibuma - Clontarf Spirit Junior and Senior Awards; Izac Norman - Academic Achievement Award; Mitchell Booth - Employment Award; Stephen Eldering - Encouragement Award; Isaac King: Academy Member of the Year.
BY NOEL ROWSELL
Year 12 Graduates left to right Blake Thoms, Kaleb Toms, Liam Nidds, Jacoda Murry, Tyrone Stewart, David Baxter (absent Terrence Oliver). Photos supplied
Stephen Eldering with the Encouragement Award
Datsun Owners converge on Emu Plains
SEVENTY-FIVE
Datsun and Nissan vehicles converged on the Lee Street Car Park in Emu Plains on Sunday morning, with their proud owners keen to not only show off their pride and joy but also to share the day with fellow enthusiasts. Vehicles included the 1600, 1200, 120Y, 200B, 240Z, Utes, GTR Skylines, some Nissans and a modern GTR.
Approximately half of the owners then travelled in convoy through Penrith and up through the hairpins on Springwood Road to enjoy the spectacular panoramic view at Yellowmundi Park.
Wellbeing activities for Veterans and their families
Wellbeing activity for December 2025
BY NOEL ROWSELL
Photos courtesy of Brendan Trotter
New kayak launch deck opens in Leonay
RESIDENTS and visitors are invited to discover a new way to enjoy the Nepean River with the opening of a new kayak launch deck on River Road in Leonay, between Buring Avenue and Urbane Street.
The new launch deck is the first to be built on the southern side of the M4. Its prime location on the western riverbank offers kayakers closer access to the stunning Nepean Gorge, a popular and picturesque destination for paddlers on the Nepean River.
Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said the construction of the new launch deck reflects Penrith City Council’s ongoing commitment to enhancing access to the Nepean River for residents and visitors.
“Since it was identified as a priority in the Our River Masterplan (2013) we’ve been working hard to deliver projects that improve our connection to the Nepean River,” Cr Carney said.
“With the support of the Australian and NSW Governments we’ve already delivered kayak launch decks as part of the Regatta Park Upgrade, along with the Tench Reserve boat ramp, viewing decks on both sides of the river and fishing platforms.
“Our existing launch decks at Tench Reserve and Regatta Park are already popular and this new facility in Leonay is another step towards improving our connection to the Nepean River and supporting people to have an enjoyable river experience.”
In addition to the new launch deck which includes an upper and lower platform, the project has also delivered a boardwalk to the water’s edge and access path connecting to the existing footpath on River Road.
This project was jointly funded by Penrith City Council and the NSW Government. Council secured a $250,000 grant under the NSW Government’s
Boating Now Program to go towards delivering this project and matched this funding.
Member for Penrith Karen McKeown OAM MP said:
“This addition to Penrith is a result of the collaborative work of the NSW Government and Penrith City Council to make it the hot-spot and tourist attraction that it deserves to be.”
“The new accessible launch deck will allow for people of all ages and skills to access the river, making it something that the whole family can use with safety and comfort.”
“I’ve been excited to work towards the development of the Nepean River, both during my time as a councillor and now as the state member, it’s great to see projects like these delivered for our community, just in time for the summer heat.”
To find out more about the project, please visit yoursaypenrith.com.au/launchdecks.
Longer influenza season continues to impact NSW Hospitals
THE effects of a prolonged influenza season continue to be felt across the NSW hospital system, but it’s not too late to protect yourself from illness.
For the week ending 16 November, more than 370 people presented to emergency departments across the state with an influenza like illness.
In the face of this unusually prolonged flu season, ED wait times remain stable, testament to the dedication and hard work of NSW Health staff in providing exceptional care to the community.
Data from the latest NSW Health respiratory surveillance report shows influenza remains prevalent in the community, which experts say is very unusual for this time of year.
Driven predominantly by influenza A, more than 3100 cases were notified in NSW for the week ending 15 November.
This is the second week in a row that cases have climbed and were around the same number of cases notified as at the start of June this year, the first week of winter.
Most people with flu don’t have a test, so this is just a small proportion of all people who have had influenza recently.
This late increase is concerning as it means the ‘flu season’ will continue to impact hospitals in NSW, especially emergency departments, and may continue to do so into December, a time of year when many gather for Christmas and end of year parties.
If an illness or injury is not serious or lifethreatening, such as a mild case of influenza, the
community is encouraged to call Healthdirect on 1800 022 222, for 24-hour advice. A nurse will answer your call, ask some questions and, if virtual care is appropriate, arrange a video-call appointment with a clinician—whether that’s a doctor, nurse or allied health professional. You’ll receive expert advice on treatment options, prescriptions if needed, and referrals to follow-up care.
Healthdirect has reported an increase in calls during this prolonged influenza season, with more than 50,000 calls from people experiencing respiratory symptoms. The service has successfully provided safe alternative care pathways for more than 65% of these callers.
For more information on respiratory illness, including to book your flu vaccination, visit: https:// www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/respiratory/ Pages/default.aspx
“This time of year is usually when our hospitals
and our staff get respite from the burden of respiratory illness, but this is not the case. Instead we are seeing sustained pressure on our EDs and on the staff who work there and across the wards,” said Minister for Health Ryan Park.
“My worry, and the worry of our health experts, is that we’re seeing an increase at a time of year where people are rightfully getting together to celebrate –but the last gift we want to be giving each other is a dose of influenza.”
By getting the influenza vaccination and staying home when we’re unwell, we can all do our bit to support health staff and protect loved ones from serious illness.
“When we compare this respiratory illness season to others, we are experiencing a longer tail, which is a concern, said NSW Health Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant.
“Usually by September or early October influenza levels have tapered to quite low levels from the peak, which traditionally occurs during winter – but we’re well into November and notifications are increasing.
“No one wants influenza, or any respiratory illness for that matter, to ruin the end of their year, so it’s important everyone takes preventive measures to stop its spread. It’s not too late to get vaccinated. If you are sick, please stay home, and wear a mask if you need to go out, to help stop the spread.
“We would also encourage people, especially those who are vulnerable, to talk to their GP and prepare a plan for what happens if they do get sick, such as getting access to anti-viral medication.”
(L to R): Richard Fox, Gareth Doran from Transport for NSW, Todd Carney Mayor of Penrith, Member for Penrith Karen McKeown OAM MP and Jessica Fox OAM.
Todd Carney Mayor of Penrith and Member for Penrith Karen McKeown OAM MP at the Kayak Launch Deck in Leonay.
Castle Group spreads Christmas cheer across Western Sydney
CASTLE Group – through its charitable arm, the Perera Foundation – is hosting Christmas barbecues this year for thousands of health workers at Liverpool Hospital, Mount Druitt Hospital, Blacktown Hospital and Nepean Hospital to thank these incredible workers who save lives every day.
At the Christmas barbecue for Liverpool Hospital last week, Castle Group employees served 250 kilograms of sausages and 1,400 vegetable patties to approximately 3,500 health workers throughout the day.
Castle Group’s CEO, Ranisha Clarke said, “Castle Group is excited to do our part so that healthcare heroes in our communities feel valued and supported. We’re in the business of creating vibrant neighbourhoods and communities, so it makes sense for us to bring some joy to health workers and bring people together to celebrate Christmas.
“We hosted two hospital barbecues last year – they were so well received by health workers, we’ve expanded these events to Liverpool and Nepean hospitals this year,” Ms Clarke said.
To further spread Christmas cheer, Castle Group employees generously donated items to a Hamper Drive that will be gifted to the company’s charitable
partners including the Harman Foundation, Jesuit Social Services and Liverpool Neighbourhood Connections.
Castle Group Founder and Group CEO, Ritchie Perera, established the Perera Foundation in 2014 to support charities and not-for-profit
organisations that make a positive impact on communities in Australia and abroad. To date, the Foundation
has donated over $1.9 million to over 200 partners and charities (November 2025).
Castle Group’s Perera Foundation Christmas barbecues for health workers
Nepean Hospital | Date: Tuesday 9 December 2025
Blacktown Hospital | Date: Wednesday 17 December 2025
Sydney Zoo launches its wildest summer ever with new experiences, Savannah sunsets and festive family fun
SYDNEY ZOO is set to deliver its wildest summer yet, unveiling an exciting lineup of new experiences across the Africa precinct, the debut of the Wild Australia Show, extended summer hours and a season of family-friendly activities, including festive moments throughout December.
From 1st December, visitors can dive into an unforgettable summer program featuring close-up animal encounters, behind-the-scenes adventures, live entertainment, and the arrival of adorable new zoo babies.
Throughout December, Christmas also comes to the Zoo, with free Santa selfies, craft activities and a festive trail the whole family can enjoy.
SUMMER ACTIVITIES STARTING 1ST DECEMBER
Christmas At Sydney Zoo (1–24 December)
The festive season arrives at Sydney Zoo this December, adding extra sparkle to the summer program with a range of Christmasthemed activities for families. From 1st to 24th December, children can get creative in the Christmas Craft Zone, decorating their own festive baubles to take home. Families can also explore the self-guided Wonderland Trail, write a letter to Santa and post it onsite in the dedicated Santa’s Mailbox. And from 20–24 December, visitors can enjoy Santa Selfies, capturing a magical moment at no additional cost.
Baby Boom – Meet the New Zoo Babies
Summer is the perfect time to meet Sydney Zoo’s newest arrivals, with baby hyenas and lemurs making their seasonal debut. By summer, these youngsters are out exploring, learning and playing – delighting visitors as they discover their world.
SUMMER EXPERIENCES FROM 26TH DECEMBER
Wild Australia – NEW Amphitheatre Show
(26 December – 4 January / Weekends Only until end of January)
Meet some of Australia’s most extraordinary native reptiles in the brand-new Wild Australia Show. Presented twice daily at 5:30pm and 7:00pm, this approx. 15-minute lively and educational show reveals fascinating facts, conservation messages and ways families can help protect wildlife at home.
VIP Safari Tour – NEW Behindthe-Scenes Experience
(Daily 26 December – 4 January / Weekends Only until end of January)
Go below the boardwalk and step into a hidden world beneath the African Savannah. The new VIP Safari Tour offers exclusive access to areas never before opened to the public. Led by Sydney Zoo’s expert keepers, guests will come face-to-face with rhinos, lions and cheetahs while hearing incredible stories about these iconic animals.
Tours run for approximately 45 minutes, suitable for ages 4+, with a capacity of 12 guests per tour (1:2 adult-to-child ratio). Tickets on sale 12 December | Tours live from 26 December
EXTENDED TRADING HOURS
(Daily 26 December – 4 January / Weekends Only until end of January)
Breakfast on the Boulevard –NEW Morning Access from 8am Rise and shine at Sydney Zoo with early entry during extended hours from 26th December. Watch as keepers start the morning feeding routines while enjoying a hot breakfast on the Primate Boulevard–a perfectly serene start before the zoo comes alive.
Savannah Sunsets – Extended Hours + Live Music + Family Entertainment
From 4pm, wander the African Boardwalk as the sun dips over the Savannah. Featuring a new African-inspired menu, live African drumming, colourful face painting for kids and goldenhour views of giraffes, lions, zebras and more –Savannah Sunsets is the must-see summer experience for families and friends.
A FULL DAY OF FAMILY ADVENTURE
With over 4,000 animals, Australia’s
largest Reptile and Nocturnal House, an aquarium, new encounters and shows, Sydney Zoo is the ultimate Summer day out. And with extended trading hours continuing weekends through January, there’s more time than ever to explore.
All activities are included in your ticket (F&B excluded). The VIP Safari Tour requires a separate ticket, available to purchase from 12th December. Book your summer experience now on SydneyZoo.com
Transforming rehab into real-life readiness for Mount Druitt Hospital patients
AT Mount Druitt Hospital, Fridays are no ordinary day on the Rehabilitation Ward.
Patients gather for “Independence in Action”, a hands-on therapy circuit designed to help them regain the skills and confidence needed for life beyond hospital walls.
Led by a passionate team of physiotherapists, occupational therapists (OT), and speech pathologists, the program transforms traditional rehab into a dynamic, realworld experience.
Lauren Grey, Occupational Therapist, explained how the program works. highlighted the physical benefits of the program.
Every Friday morning, we have stations set up from 9:30 till 12:30 where patients get the opportunity to practice everything they’ve been doing with their therapist during the week in a really functional way. “ “
The circuit includes stations for:
• Shopping simulation with trolleys and lists
• Laundry tasks with wet and dry clothes
• Cleaning stations (with pompoms for fun!)
• Plant care, pet care, and mail sorting
• Kitchen tasks like loading dishwashers and wiping benches
• Scam mail identification, a modern-day essential
Andrew De Leon, Physiotherapist,
From a physio perspective, it really helps bridge the gap between what patients do in the gym and what they’ll be doing at home. It’s a great collaboration and a really good idea. “ “
Michelle Hampton, Speech Pathologist, explained that the program helps beyond this too.
“We work with patients who have word-finding difficulties, categorisation, reading and writing challenges,” she said.
“This circuit allows us to support them in a more naturalistic environment. Functional therapy like this improves quality of life after stroke – and it helps us see things we might miss at bedside.”
The program also fosters teamwork across disciplines.
“If something pops up during the
shopping task, like difficulty reaching for an item, I can liaise with the OT or physio to address it, even if it’s outside my scope,” Michelle explains.
“That way, we ensure patients are truly ready to participate in life again.”
Patients are responding positively.
“They enjoy it,” Andrew said.
“And it helps them realise what might still be challenging. It’s enlightening –they see what they need to work on to get back home.”
The circuit was initiated by Maddison Gaughan and Lauren Grey,
whose dedication has been deeply appreciated.
“All of this is because of Maddie and Lauren,” Michelle said.
“
They go above and beyond for every patient. They care like it’s their own family.
“They make sure patients are truly ready before discharge. We’re so lucky to have them.”
The team is already planning future expansions, including a drive-through simulation to reflect modern lifestyles.
“We want the group to be meaningful and fun,” says Lauren.
“A drive-through station would let us practice cognition, communication, and upper limb skills in a realistic way.”
As Claudia Buccini, Occupational Therapist, explained the significance of the program to the patients.
“Being in hospital for a long time can be tough,” she said.
“This group gives patients something to look forward to, helps them connect with others, and brings joy to their recovery.”
Nepean / Blue Mountains Prostate Cancer Support Group – December Group Meeting
THE next Group Meeting of the Nepean / Blue Mountains Prostate Cancer Support Group will be held on Monday 15th of December, 2025 at the Leonay Golf Club, 1 Leonay Parade, Leonay, NSW 2750 commencing at 11.30 am.
This Meeting will be the Group’s Annual General Meeting and will be followed by the Group’s Christmas Luncheon. (Please note the earlier start time)
There is a nominal cost for the Christmas Luncheon of $10 per member, $20 for single non members or $30 per couple for non member couples. For non members these costs include membership of our Group if desired.
Although this Meeting is our AGM and Christmas Party it is still open to all men who may be experiencing prostate problems or just wish to
become more aware of this disease. New comers will be made most welcome.
As usual at all of our Group Meetings, partners are not only welcome but are encouraged to attend. For further information www.prostatesupport. org.au or ‘phone the Group’s President David Wilkinson on1300 13 38 78. (president@ prostatesupport.org.au)
We are all looking for a home
ORCHARD HILLS
VETERINARY HOSPITAL
MEET the Berry Kittens, a delightful bunch of playful little furballs ready to steal your heart! At just 10 weeks old, these kittens are bursting with energy and curiosity, eager to explore the world around them. With their variety of beautiful colors, including four male ginger beauties, a striking blue and white female, and an elegant silver tabby female, there’s a perfect match for every cat lover in this charming litter.
The Berry Kittens exhibit a healthy mix of personalities, from the more adventurous explorers who can’t wait to play hide-and-seek in every corner of the house to the affection-seeking cuddle bugs who love finding a warm lap to nap on. These social butterflies thrive on interaction, making them ideal companions for families and individuals alike.
Their youthful enthusiasm is contagious, and every moment with these kittens promises plenty of laughter and joy. Spark their curiosity with fun toys and interactive play sessions, and you’ll find yourself enchanted by their antics and ever-busy paws.
If you’re ready to welcome a bundle of joy into your home, the Berry Kittens are waiting to find their loving new families. Don’t miss the chance to bring one (or more!) of these adorable little family members home and watch them grow into magnificent and affectionate adult cats.
Adoption Fee: $99 each
Age: 8 weeks
Type: Cat
Breed: Domestic Short Hair
Sex: Female & Male
All prices include microchipping, lifetime council registration, desexing and 1st Vaccination. R251000145
Why diagnostic testing matters for your pet’s health
BY KELLIE TICKNER, ORCHARD HILLS VETERINARY HOSPITAL ADMINISTRATOR
WHEN your pet isn’t acting quite like themselves — whether they’re unwell or simply showing subtle changes — your veterinarian’s priority is to uncover the cause quickly and with confidence. Because our furry family members can’t explain what they’re feeling, diagnostic tests like bloodwork, X-rays, and ultrasound become essential in giving us answers.
These tests can sometimes feel like an added expense, but they are powerful tools that guide your vet in making informed decisions, identifying potential problems early, and ensuring your pet receives the safest and most
effective treatment. In many ways, diagnostics speak on behalf of your pet when they can’t.
Blood tests offer valuable insight into your pet’s internal health. They help evaluate organ function, hydration status, blood cell levels, and can reveal signs of inflammation or infection. Subtle shifts in kidney or liver values may signal the early stages of disease — long before physical symptoms appear. Regular bloodwork is especially important for ageing pets or those on long-term medications, helping vets catch changes early and adjust treatment if needed.
X-rays (radiographs) give veterinarians the ability to look inside your pet’s body without invasive procedures. They’re particularly useful for identifying broken bones, arthritis, tumours, swallowed objects, bladder stones, or changes in the lungs and heart. A dog with a chronic cough, for example, might have normal blood tests — yet an X-ray could reveal an enlarged heart or a mass affecting their breathing. Radiographs often provide the crucial piece of information needed
to make a diagnosis.
Ultrasound goes a step further by allowing vets to see organs in real time. This detailed view is ideal for examining the liver, kidneys, bladder, and heart, and can detect fluid, masses, or other abnormalities. Ultrasound is gentle, non-invasive, and often requires no sedation, making it a comfortable option for many pets. It also assists vets in taking precise samples for laboratory testing when needed.
Sometimes, your vet may suggest referral to a specialist hospital, such as SASH, for more advanced imaging, such as a CT scan or MRI. These sophisticated tools produce highly detailed images that are invaluable when investigating complex or hardto-diagnose conditions.
Veterinarians recommend diagnostic tests thoughtfully and with purpose. Each test is chosen based on your pet’s symptoms, physical exam findings, and medical history. Often, several tests are used together to form a complete picture — much like assembling pieces of a puzzle.
In the end, diagnostics don’t just
confirm illness; they reduce uncertainty, prevent unnecessary treatments, and allow your vet to tailor the best care for your pet. Understanding what’s happening inside your pet’s body can make an enormous difference to their recovery and long-term health.
For more information about diagnostic testing, speak with the team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 02 4736 2027.
Local woman shares her advice in new book
Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it; Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it.” Johann Wolfgang von Goethe Begin It Now is a powerful call to action for every woman with a dream in her heart. It’s a reminder that courage doesn’t come before action, it grows because of it.
In this book you’ll hear the stories of remarkable women from around the world who have had the courage to overcome their fears and take action in beginning something new and exciting!
Through heartfelt stories, honest reflections, and practical inspiration, you’re invited to stop waiting for the stars to align and start building the life you’ve imagined.
Featuring the voices of:
Aaila Greene, Alicia Nukuri, Anna Abesadze, Amanda Mullin, Gina Field, Jessica Hansen, Katy Garner, Laura Muirhead, Laurelle Jno Baptiste, Le Thu Phan-Tran, Parvina Mirakhmedova, Peace Mitchell, Rand Alkishtaini, Rania Al Khusaibi, Romaa Rajadhyaksha, Saode Savary, Sarah Macrae, Sharon Swietek, Sinja Hallam, Stella Kikoyo and Susan Toft
Gina Field of Nepean Regional Security is part of a collaboration sharing advice and stories to inspire women to take action on their dreams!
Begin It Now highlights the importance of taking the first step and letting go of waiting for perfection. Offering readers inspiration to begin living the life of their dreams now instead of waiting until conditions are perfect.
The book features a collection of diverse perspectives and experiences from women who have followed their dreams across a range of fields, industries and passions.
Featuring real-life, relatable role-models from all walks of life who have had the courage to stop waiting and follow their dreams!
Gina shared her chapter in this book because she felt compelled to encourage other women who may be hesitant to go for what they want due to stereotypes.
“One of the things I’m most proud of these days is hearing from women, through emails, messages, and conversations, telling me that I’ve inspired them to step into diverse industries or take the leap into their own startup,” Gina said.
Having the determination to begin despite fears and setback is one of the most important qualities you need to succeed in following your dreams as Gina explains, “you have to ask yourself what’s the worst that can happen? Once you’ve faced that fear you can begin to conquer any others.”
The small business path isn’t always easy or straightforward, and it can be challenging to follow your dreams and Gina gives this advice for others. “My leadership style has always been simple; lead by example, treat people how you’d want to be treated, lace up your boots, and work shoulder to shoulder with your team.”
Begin It Now launched in Vancouver on 6 November at the Women Changing the World Summit and with an online festival featuring interviews and presentations from each of the authors during November.
For more information about Begin It Now visit www. wcwpress.com
THERE’S a new headline making waves in the energy world: three hours of free electricity for every household. The announcement—known as the Solar Sharer Offer (SSO)—arrived with little warning, and energy retailers have been vocal about being caught off-guard. Still, for consumers, the idea of free daily power between 11:00 am and 2:00 pm sounds almost too good to ignore. But what does it actually mean for you?
The aim of the SSO is straightforward: Australia is generating an enormous amount of solar energy in the middle of the day—
Jim’s Gems
more than the grid can comfortably absorb. Rather than paying generators to switch off or letting excess power go to waste, the government wants households to help “soak up” the surplus. In exchange, your usage during those three hours becomes free. It’s a clever idea—reduce strain on the grid while giving consumers a genuine reward.
Participation, however, comes with conditions. The program is expected to begin in July 2026 and will be available to residents in participating regions, including NSW. You won’t need your own solar system or home battery, and you don’t need to own your home. Renters and apartment dwellers are welcome. But you will need to have a smart meter installed. Fortunately, with NSW’s ongoing smart-meter rollout targeting full coverage by 2030, most households will qualify eventually.
That leaves the key question: how do you make the most of your
PREMATURE Decoration! Here we are in November and it has been happening for weeks - the dreaded early Christmas decorations.
Just when you thought it was safe to leave your homes and venture out into the vulnerable world of the shopping centre, cue Jaws music - the premature decorators!!!!! I call them The PD club.
Have you ever watched Crime Stoppers and thought, I never knew that he or she was capable of that? The neighbours are interviewed and they say, “he was a quiet person, lovely family, I never knew that this street could house people like that,” and then look shocked.
Well the PD club are like that, they just look like meek and mild people, harmless and quiet, but deep down they are hiding a secret, perhaps even hiding tinsel in the wardrobe, who knows? But once they are out together, anything is possible. Similar to the zombie apocalypse?
Scientists still can’t work out the chemical imbalance in the PD’ers brain that gives them the urge to pull out the odd Santa and tree before December.
daily three hours of free power? Running around the house at 11:00 am switching everything on isn’t realistic, unless you want the bonus of cardio exercise with your savings. The smarter approach is to use timers and automation. Many modern appliances—dishwashers, washing machines, heat pumps—already include delayed-start functions. Pool pumps can easily be set to run during the free window. Heating and cooling systems can pre-condition your home. Electric hot water systems can be fitted with timer controls (though gas systems, of course, won’t benefit).
And for those with electric vehicles, charging during the free period could become a major household saving.
If future program rules allow it, even battery owners could take advantage by charging up at no cost, then using that power later in the day.
The concept is simple: shift as much of your energy consumption as possible into the free window, reducing what
Statistics have shown that most grow up and run shopping centres, kid’s warehouses and the most hardened PD’s usually run department stores in the city where they can PD in about August.
Thankfully they are testing drugs at the moment that may stabilise the chemical imbalance to make PD’s actually want to start decorating in December. Trials have begun.
So as a security professional I am not really sure how to stop the PD club, however I can tell you that Christmas time is a great time for the baddies to come out and play. A couple of years ago a business near our business office left the gate unlocked, left for the Christmas shut down and boom the opportunist struck. All over Christmas in fact!
Hey, the buildings were alarmed but all the stuff in the yard (worth mega dollars) was laying there in all its glory, saying take me, pick me!!!!
There was a very well-executed clean out that lasted the entire weekend, because the baddies knew that this business was closed for business. How? Because it had a sign on it saying, back on what-ever date.
With Jim Hill, Nepean Solar Solutions
you pay during peak times. Households with existing rooftop solar might already get free electricity around the same time of day, but the SSO still raises important considerations. Many solar owners are exporting power for just 3 to 5 cents per kilowatt-hour, only to buy it back in the evening for up to 40 cents. The SSO provides yet another reminder to pay attention to your system’s performance and how your home uses energy throughout the day.
Programs like this highlight a broader truth: a little bit of energy awareness can translate into very real savings. If you want tailored advice or a personalised plan—including solar and battery options—local experts can help.
Nepean Solar Solutions has been serving the community for more than a decade and can offer guidance to maximise your energy efficiency.
For more information, contact (02) 4760 0809.
“Yippee,” the baddies screamed and happily cleaned them out of all the stock in the yard - 30 grand of crafted sandstone, to be exact.
Thankfully, good old NRS (my security company) was across the road and with the use of our cameras, the offenders were tracked down, caught and some stock returned. The other stuff was sold, oh and of course they burnt a truck out as well.
So let me ask you this? How would losing 30 grand from your business affect your operations? How would losing 30 grand from your house affect you?
So while you may say, “nah we will be right mate!” think about your security needs over Chrissy. Alarms, cameras, patrols, guards or whatever!
There are some things I can help you with and some things that I can’t, such as shopping and listening to “I’m dreaming of a white Christmas” in Coles on a 36 degree day in November.
So there you have it, the PD club will overrun us one day, think about your security and may your Christmas shopping begin!
A family show opening soon
A Ruby Christmas 2
Directed by Anthony Brown and Louise Gal
Two short plays written by Louise and Ellie Gal PERFORMANCE DATES
December 12th, 13th, 14th and 20th at 7pm plus matinees on 13th and 20th at 2pm
A Ruby Christmas is a colourful sequel to our Christmas show last December. A family fun filled event with timeless songs like “Frosty the snowman”, “Rockin around the Christmas Tree”, “Santa Claus is coming to town” and many more!
Pictured is Ellie Gal and Kayne Kohler who sing an incredible duet.
Photography by Louise Gal
No Wheelchair access
Ticket price is $30 for adults and $25 concession.
To book tickets go to www.trybooking.com/DEDSI
To reserve tickets email rubyproductions99@gmail.com
“A RUBY CHRISTMAS 2”
will be performed at John Lees Centre, Level 1, 15 Evan Street; Penrith. www.rubyproductions.com.au
FORTY-SEVEN
ladies teed up for the Women’s Golf Nepean (WGN)
Final at Wallacia CC on Wednesday 26th November, representing 10 western Sydney golf clubs including Penrith, Leonay, Richmond, Windsor, Dunheved, Glenmore Heritage Valley, Camden, Lakeside, Campbelltown and Wallacia.
Jessica Fog (Penrith GC) was again the champion for the second successive year, shooting 74 to successfully defend her crown.
Full results: Champion of Champions –Scratch (DI Moncrieff Medal)
Jessica Fog (Penrith)
Champion of Champions -Nett (Nancye Cullen Medal) Rhianna Gascoine (Lakeside)
‘Other Champion’ Nett Di Edwards (Penrith); Runner-up Kerry Bradley (Campbelltown)
Golf NSW Medal Nett Jill Squires (Campbelltown); Runner-up Anna Menna (Camden)
Nepean Brooch Nett Christel McDonald (Campbelltown); Runnerup Julieanne James (Camden)
Stableford Division 1 Karen Klein (Wallacia); Runner Up Liecer Daley (Campbelltown); 3rd Evelyn Oram (Richmond); Division 2 Denise Chant (Wallacia); Runner Up Angela Toto (Camden); 3rd Sarah Plunkett (Penrith).
TRADES & SERVICES
Sarah Plunkett, Jessica Fog, Di Edwards (Penrith Ladies).
BY NOEL ROWSELL
Liecer Daley, Kerry Bradley, Christel McDonald, Jill Squires (Campbelltown Ladies).
Jessica Fog (Penrith), Karen Klein (Wallacia President).
Stonecutters Ridge juniors reach Encourage Shield Final
STONECUTTERS Ridge
Encourage Shield team are successfully through to the Final of the 2025 JNJG Encourage Shield, following a 3.5/2.5 win over Castle Hill at Camden Lakeside on Sunday.
The winners for Stonecutters Ridge were Taylor Serafin 4/3, Jacob Bartolome 6/5, Luke Miller 2-up and Joel Miller had a tie.
The Final between Stonecutters Ridge and Ryde Parramatta will be played at Concord GC this Sunday, commencing at 12:00pm.
Ti Fox runner-up in Bonville Champions Trophy
BY NOEL ROWSELL
CONCORD GC junior and defending champion Bo Chung stormed to victory in the Boys division of the 2025 JNJG Bonville Champions Trophy, which was held at Bonville GC over the 26-28th November.
Bo equalled the course record in his fourth round, shooting a stunning 65 to finish at -17, defeating his Concord GC club-mate, Richmond’s Ti Fox, by six shots, with Haohua Sun (RydeParramatta) a further shot back in third.
All three leading boys were under par in every round, underlining the immense talent on display in Coffs Harbour over the three days of competition.
Ti shot rounds of 68/71/69/69 to finish at a very impressive -11, in itself a fabulous score on the testing layout.
2023 Girls champion Amelia Harris (Yarra Yarra, VIC) set the Girls standard on the opening day, streeting the field with a five-under-par 67 to establish a six shot lead, then played steady golf to finish at +3, easily holding off the other contenders.
Western Sydney golfers to contest prestigious Port Phillip Open Amateur
FOUR western Sydney golfers will head to Victoria next week to compete in the 2025 Port Phillip Men’s Open Amateur, which is being held at Commonwealth and Kingston Heath golf courses on the 11-13th December.
The local players are Richmond’s Ti Fox (Concord GC), Twin Creeks’ Darcy Mackay (The Australian GC), Alex Radevski (Twin Creeks GC) and Nihal Gaundar (Stonecutters Ridge GC).
The tournament commenced in 1976 as a joint initiative of the Commonwealth and Kingston Heath Golf Clubs. Both clubs recognised the importance of providing championship tournament conditions for up-andcoming amateur golfers, as a way of testing their skill and a pathway to professional golf.
In 2002, the Port Phillip Women’s Open Amateur was introduced in conjunction with the Men’s event. Over the tournament’s history, the event has had a variety of formats, such as “Invitational” and “Open Amateur”.
Both clubs are proud of the list of female and male previous winners, many of whom have forged successful international careers in professional golf. In 2008, the two clubs, in conjunction with Golf Australia, resolved to have the Port Phillip 72hole stroke play event as the qualifying rounds for the Women’s and Men’s Victorian Amateur Championship.
This has seen the tournament grow into one of the leading amateur events in Australia, attracting players from overseas and interstate, which has enhanced the local field of quality players.
The tournament is a 72-hole stroke play event and has men’s & women’s National Order of Merit (OOM), Victoria State OOM and World Amateur Golf Ranking status, and serves as the qualifying event for the
Victorian Amateur Championship - a Match Play tournament for the leading 16 men and 16 women to be held at Commonwealth GC on 1516th December.
BY NOEL ROWSELL
Stonecutters Ridge GC Encourage Shield team. Photo supplied.
(L-R): Allan Ison (manager), Jacob Bartolome, Ruby Ison, Luke Miller, Zoe Miller, Chase Farrell, Savannah Webb (assistant manager), Joel Mille
BY NOEL ROWSELL
Alex Radevski and Nihal Gaundar. Photos courtesy of Golf NSW
Former western Sydney resident Camilla Kim (The Australian) finished 2nd at +8, with Savannah Webb (Stonecutters Ridge) also in the Top Ten, finishing in 7th place at +17.
Ti Fox in action at Bonville.
Photos courtesy of Ethan Keane / JNJG
HSRCA Summer Festival ignites as SMSP
SPark hosted
& Racing Car Association (HSRCA) annual Summer Festival over the 29-30th November, featuring two full days of Classic, Vintage and Historic racing.
Classes featured over the weekend included Groups A, C & U in Sports Sedans; L, M, O, P and Formula Ford, Q & R, Group S, Group N and Formula Vee in Races, Regularity and Supersprint events.
The full results for the weekend can be found at: http://racing.natsoft.com. au/results/#2
YDNEY Motorsport
the 2025 Historic Sports
BY NOEL ROWSELL
HSRCA Summer Festival ignites as SMSP. Photos by Noel Rowsell Tony Paynter #15, David Cutts #16, Mathew Pearce #85.
David Stone #76, Simon Meyer #12.
Douglas Barbour #911, Mikki Purlaid #27.
Tony Hubbard #11, Greg Paynter #17.
Daniel Torresan #22, Greg Johnston #32, Peter Mohacsi #12.
Keith Uebel #133, Wayne Colville #27.
Will Faulkner #95, Kieran McLaughlin #50.
Max Carter #43, Simon Pfitzner #1.
Archer Buchert selected as Intern at Ellerston Onassis Polo
BY NOEL ROWSELL
ARCHER
Buchert (Windsor Polo Club) has been selected as the first Ellerston Onassis Polo Club intern.
Archer will spend time at Ellerston learning alongside James Harper and his team, immediately after school term finishes in December.
Archer will be immersed in the Ellerston Onassis operation and learn about schooling young horses, prepping older horses, breeding, spelling management and all the inner workings of one of the world’s elite polo institutions.
Archer is the first intern in a program that will run most seasons, providing plenty of opportunity for emerging players to spend some time at Ellerston.
This extraordinary opportunity is made possible through the generosity of the Packer family and is part of the Polo NSW youth accelerator program.
In other recent Polo news, the Polo NSW Young Players Committee has been launched and the founding committee members are Colt Kahlbetzer, Anna Dowling, Tom Parry-Okeden, Archie Dowling, Piper Trickett, Scarlett Francis and Archer Buchert.
Colt Kahlbetzer was elected by his peers as President, whilst Piper Trickett and Scarlett Francis will share the position of Secretary.
The committee is keen to engage with all young people in the sport and will reach out through social media channels. The Young Players will also be a voice for the younger playing cohort, representing their views to the main board of Polo NSW.
The general brief for the Young Players committee is as follows:
1. Set the standard for on- and offfield behaviour for young players
2. Encourage young player participation in all the opportunities presented to them by Polo NSW
3. Provide feedback to Polo NSW from the perspective of the young players cohort
4. Generate ideas for the development of the sport – coaching,
training, competitions etc
5. Implement and lead initiatives in player development
6. Devise and implement social activities for young players
7. Devise and implement communications strategy for young players
8. Foster in the young players cohort an appreciation for the history of the sport and its former players
The Young Players committee welcomes contact from others keen to engage. To do so, please contact them via their Instagram page www. instagram.com/nswyoungplayers/
Archer Buchert (far right) with the Australian Schools Polo team. Photo courtesy of Polo NSW
Emu Plains U8’s big night out at the A League
BY NOEL ROWSELL
WHAT an eventful weekend for the Emu Plains Football Club’s U8 Development squad, which was invited to walk out with the players on Saturday night, at the big Sydney derby between the Western Sydney Wanderers and Sydney FC.
It was a great day for the youngsters and a great win for the home side. A big ‘Thank You’ to the Western Sydney Wanderers for the opportunity. It’s an experience the boys will never forget!
