Nepean News 10 December 2020

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Thursday, 10 December 2020

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ISSUE 292

Congratulations to Twin Creeks Golf & Country Club! Your commemorative Div 2 Pennants pull-out inside

Super Saints After an incredibly challenging year for local charities and their volunteers, St Marys Rugby Leagues Club put on a special Christmas Lunch to say thank you. More inside.

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Nepean News 10 December 2020 Issue 292

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local news

Register to have your say on Nepean Hospital Stage 2

By KeRRIE DAVIES

O

ur local community is full of ideas on how Nepean Hospital can best serve us, and here’s our chance to have some

input.

Stuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith and Tanya Davies MP, Member for Mulgoa are inviting community members to participate in the planning and design of Stage 2 of the $1 billion Nepean Hospital Redevelopment, which includes a transformation of hospital and community-based health services.

The “register your interest” campaign will run for two months before feedback sessions start in February 2021.

Stage 2 of the Nepean Redevelopment, which is funded by the NSW Government, will include a new intensive care unit, cardiology services, in-centre renal dialysis unit, medical imaging and nuclear medicine services, more beds, staff education and training facilities, community health services and a new front of house for the hospital.

Stuart Ayres said Community input into the design of the Nepean Redevelopment will ensure the new facilities are patient-centred, welcoming and suit the unique needs of people in this area.

“Construction for Stage 2 is being fully integrated with the Stage 1 tower and is due to commence in 2022 when construction on Stage 1 is complete in late 2021.”

Tanya Davies said stage 2 community participation follows on from the successful community feedback roadshow for Stage 1, which captured more than 1,200 comments from people in Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains.

Nepean Hospital volunteers and Stage 2 image

“When complete, the Nepean Redevelopment Stage 1 and 2 will future-proof world-class health care in the region for decades to come.”

Stage 1 construction, which is well underway, includes a new 14-storey hospital tower featuring a new Emergency Department, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, operating theatres, birthing services and more than 200 inpatient beds.

In addition to the new tower, the following works have also been completed at Nepean Hospital as part

of Stage 1: o A new multi-storey car park with rooftop helipad (opened July 2019). o Expansion of services at Nepean Cancer Care Centre (opened August 2019). o New childcare centre on campus (opened in June 2020) For more information or to have your say, visit www.nepeanredevelopment.health.nsw.gov.au/ opportunities/have-your-say-for-stage-2

Devastating: nine year old hit by a truck at Cambridge Gardens

By KeRRIE DAVIES

S

adly as we head towards the Christmas period it is devastation for the family of a child who has died after being hit by a truck in Cambridge Gardens this week.

Just after 4pm on Monday 7 December, emergency services were called to Boomerang Place, Cambridge Gardens, near Richmond Rd, following reports a child had been hit by a truck.

The child, a nine-year-old girl, unfortunately died at the scene.

Officers from Nepean Police Area Command attended and established a crime scene.

An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash is underway.

Emergency services were called to assist another nine-year-old on the same day in Colyton after she was struck by a car while riding her bicycle.

The girl fell to the ground and suffered injuries to her leg.

CareFlight’s Rapid Response Helicopter was tasked by NSW Ambulance at 4:25pm and landed 15 minutes later in a park. NSW Police escorted the clinical team to the scene of the incident where NSW Ambulance paramedics were providing initial treatment.

CareFlight’s specialist doctor and NSW Ambulance critical care paramedic performed a clinical assessment on the girl, including an ultrasound to assess her injuries.

The girl was taken by road, with spinal precautions, by NSW Ambulance under ongoing

Careflight lands in Colyton

observation from CareFlight’s clinical team to The Children’s Hospital at Westmead in a stable condition.

Anyone with information about the incidents is urged to contact Crime

Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or www.nsw. crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

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local news

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tuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith invites eligible local small businesses to apply for a grant through NSW Government’s $5 million Community and Small Business CCTV Fund to help safeguard against would-be crooks in the community.

The fund is supporting the purchase and installation of CCTV across ten Local Government Areas in Western and South Western Sydney including Penrith.

Stuart Ayres said preventing and reducing crime is a priority with this program protecting businesses and assisting our police to catch and prosecute offenders.

“Having CCTV cameras installed is about enhancing public safety and is a deterrent for would be criminals.”

The CCTV funding has been allocated over four years and provides up to $5,000 toward the cost and installation of cameras.

Stuart Ayres MP and Phil Stormer of Stormer Music – a CCTV grant recipient.

The program is open for For more information, go to: not-for-profit community organisations and small www.crimeprevention.nsw.gov.au/cctvfund businesses with a turnover of less than $2 million.

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Nepean News 10 December 2020 Issue 292

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From the Editor’s Desk

Nepean News 10 December 2020 Issue 292

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By KeRRIE DAVIES

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

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

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W

ho can believe that we are in December already? Every year it seems that Christmas rolls around quicker than it did the year before and once again we are just weeks away from the big day.

Which brings us to thinking about our shopping list, who we need to buy for, how much to spend, and can we think of anything more exciting or original than socks or hankies?

There’s another thing to think about this year while wondering if Nan has used all the bath soaps and perfumes she got last year, and that is that it is important to shop local.

Whilst there are many great positives in running your own business, being in small business can be a tough gig at times. The hours are often horrendous and there’s not much to fall back on for income during quiet times.

And while I don’t need to remind you how horrendous 2020 has been for small business, many have already been taking a hit over the last few years prior to the pandemic - from online traders taking a chunk of the market share. Online traders can get around an array of costs, such as shop rent and employing staff.

It is more important than ever to support our local small businesses by buying locally.

Penrith and St Marys are great places to shop; it is nice to get some fresh air, bump in to people you know, and the small business owners are friendly and happy to help.

By shopping locally you are doing your bit to ensure our region maintains a large variety of shops offering goods, and it also helps stimulate local employment.

Nobody wants a ghost town of closed shops with everyone having to drive or catch public transport to work in other areas that are thriving - but that’s the picture that anywhere faces if their local community doesn’t get behind them and support them.

Our community is one of the best in the nation when it comes to supporting others, so let’s get behind our small businesses more than ever this year and keep Penrith and St Marys thriving.

Shop local Your thoughts? kerrie@nepeannews.com.au

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Stuart Ayres MP Penrith Mayor, Karen McKeown OAM (right) is joined by Member for Penrith, the Hon. Stuart Ayres MP at the newly upgraded Ironbark Reserve Playspace at Cranebrook.

A

whirly gig spinner, frog rocker and birds nest swing are just some of the fun new elements added to Ironbark Reserve Playspace through a recent upgrade.

Funded by Penrith City Council and the NSW Government’s Everyone Can Play Grant Program, the upgrade has brought new life to the Cranebrook reserve, making it more inviting for young and old.

Penrith Mayor, Karen McKeown OAM said as well as the new play equipment, extensive landscaping, a picnic shelter and other shaded seating had turned Ironbark Reserve into a refuge for the community and visitors.

“Council recognises that to make Penrith more liveable we need to create more shade in our open spaces and make our city greener,” Cr McKeown said.

“The improvements at Ironbark Reserve are part of a broader project that will see trees and shade

structures added to 90 playspaces over the city over the next three years.”

Penrith Council has contributed $120,000 to the Ironbark Reserve Playspace with an additional $50,000 coming from the Everyone Can Play Grant Program.

Member for Penrith, the Hon. Stuart Ayres MP said Everyone Can Play is about creating inclusive playspaces across NSW. “Our parks and playgrounds are an important part of everyday life where people of all ages can join together in the outdoors to have fun, keep active and build friendships,” said Stuart Ayres Cr McKeown said Council planned to upgrade 25 playspaces across Penrith over the next five years to make them more contemporary and inclusive.

To find out more, go to penrith.city/playspaceupgrades

Member for Penrith

Phone: 4722 8660 Email: penrith@parliament.nsw.gov.au Shop 23, Tattersalls Centre, 510-534 High Street, Penrith Authorised by Stuart Ayres MP. ‘Funded using parliamentary entitlements’

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Nepean News 10 December 2020 Issue 292

Swing, climb and slide at Ironbark Reserve

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local news

By KeRRIE DAVIES

F

rontline d o m e s t i c violence services in Penrith and Western Sydney have had an incredibly tough time trying to help people in challenging situations this year.

Often relying on the generosity of local people and businesses, many have been starved of the usual donations they receive due to the pandemic.

Thanks to the NSW Government, they now will benefit from over $1M in additional funding to ensure victimsurvivors can access the help they need as NSW continues to confront the COVID-19 pandemic.

Stuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith today announced the local recipients of the COVID-19 Sexual, Domestic and Family Violence Grant program was funded in partnership with the Commonwealth Government.

Eight services will receive the funding boost for programs including: • The Haven Nepean Women’s Shelter – conversion of the garage at the shelter to an office and small meeting room • Community Restorative Centre – additional support worker to meet increased demand for the Miranda Project

• Blue Mountains Women’s Health and Resource Centre – employ DFV specialist counsellor to respond to increased service demand • BaptistCare Hope Street Women’s Services – Safer in Sydney project is a special support package targeted at women on temporary visas experiencing DFV • Settlement Services International – expansion of the Building Stronger Families: 16 week Men’s Behaviour Change Program in partnership with Relationships Australia • Immigrant Women’s Speakout Association – shelter, food, transportation and communication

resources to assist clients • Australian Red Cross Society – ‘Empowerment to Respond’ project will provide safe and welcoming spaces for socially isolated women impacted by forced marriage in Western Sydney • Great Lakes Agency for Peace and Development International – expand DFV services provided to African communities in Western Sydney due to increased demand “Sadly, domestic violence continues across our communities, and our frontline workers are facing increased demand and pressures due to the pandemic,” Stuart Ayres said.

“This funding will protect the women and children of Penrith as we work together to eradicate family violence from our communities.”

“Huge thanks to our dedicated frontline workers for everything they do to support some of the most vulnerable members of Penrith.”

Attorney General and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence Mark Speakman said nearly 100 service providers from across the state have been awarded a share in more than $12 million to support more victim-survivors.

The announcement also marked the start of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, an annual international awareness campaign that begins on 25 November – the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women – and runs until World Human Rights Day on 10 December.

These grants follow the $21 million investment in frontline domestic violence support services jointly funded by the Federal and NSW Governments in May. For confidential advice, support and referrals related to domestic and family violence, contact: 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732), The NSW Domestic Violence Line (1800 65 64 63) or Men’s Referral Service (1300 766 491).

Nepean News 10 December 2020 Issue 292

Domestic violence services receive much-needed help

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local news would move to Sydney and become the carer for both Eunice and Beryl.

Beryl passed away on 12th October 2016.

Eunice and Beryl were both heavily involved in the group “The Tuesday Club” which met each week at Joan Sutherland Centre and they were also both members of the Arthritis Association in Penrith for many years, where they held street stalls to raise money and donate to local charities.

After some difficulty finding a venue for Eunice’s 100th Birthday celebrations, the family said Bernie at The Gael’s Club was absolutely amazing and the function was held at The Gaels on Sunday 6th December.

By Noel Rowsell

E

unice Myra Hockley (nee Hampton) was born on December 4, 1920 in Forbes NSW, the 3rd child in a family of 4 children.

The family moved to Sydney in 1941 when Eunice was 21 and she lived with her grandparents in Leichhardt until her parents bought a house in the same suburb.

Eunice worked at Bradford Cotton Mills in Newtown as a machinist and met her future husband, Charles Henry Hockley at the Mills.

Charles then later moved to the NSW State Rail Workshops in Chullora as an armature bander.

Eunice and Charles were married on 15th March 1947 at the Salvation Army Citadel on Carlisle Street, Leichhardt.

Their first daughter Clytie Mary Hockley was born in 1948 and the family moved to Regents Park in 1950, when Clytie was 2 years old.

Eunice and Charles had another 2 children, Victor Henry Hockley in 1953 and Beryl Eunice Hockley in 1954.

In 1979 Eunice and Charles moved to Penrith and in 1985, Charles died of a heart attack at the age of 67.

Beryl remained at home to be Eunice’s companion and carer and when Beryl became ill with Esophageal Cancer, Clytie

PHOTOS: Supplied by Karen Polatos.

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Nepean News 10 December 2020 Issue 292

100 Years Celebration for Eunice Myra Hockley

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Nepean News 10 December 2020 Issue 292

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local news

Christmas comes early for agricultural shows and field days

By KeRRIE DAVIES

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hows and field days cancelled because of COVID-19 are about to get a slice of $34 million Australian Government funding to ensure they can bounce back in 2021.

Minister for Agriculture David Littleproud said the first payments under the Supporting Agricultural Shows and Field Days program will roll out before Christmas.

“Two months ago, I launched this significant package to reimburse eligible costs for shows and field days who had to cancel because of COVID-19,” Minister Littleproud said.

“Today I am pleased to announce that 378 shows and field days have been approved for funding and will receive almost $34 million to help ease cashflow pressures.

“For some shows, this comes on top of support already received through the Australian Government’s $20 million Agricultural Show Development Grants program to upgrade, maintain or build new infrastructure.

“This funding supports hundreds of our regional and remote country shows and field days held throughout Australia, as well as the big Royal Shows.

“The Government is keen to ensure show societies and field day organisers are in the best shape possible to continue in 2021 and beyond.

“These events bring our families and farmers together, build community spirit and help bridge the divide between country and city. They also help farmers stay competitive by providing an opportunity to share innovation and new ways of doing business.

“They are uniquely Australian and provide huge economic spinoffs for the local communities hosting them as well as opportunities for the businesses and services who exhibit.”

Chair of Agricultural Shows Australia Dr Rob Wilson said show societies forced to cancel in 2020 were positive about hosting again next year.

“This Australian Government support has helped provide certainty and a renewed sense of optimism ahead of 2021 after a difficult year for everyone, especially our 50,000 volunteers,” Dr Wilson said.

“With some states already giving the go-ahead to shows next year, subject to COVID conditions being met, this funding will ensure

Ludden Show

hundreds of societies can start planning now.”

Secretary of the Association of Agricultural Field Days of Australasia Wendy Franklin welcomed the fast turnaround of applicants’ approvals.

“Getting this money out the door is going to be a fantastic Christmas present for many of our event organisers,” Mrs Franklin said.

“Even if it’s to help cover costs such as rates, insurance and telecommunications, this support will go a long way towards ensuring next year we can bounce back bigger and better.”

For more information go to the Supporting Agricultural Shows and Field Days program webpage www.agriculture.gov.au

local news

11 Nepean News 10 December 2020 Issue 292

Tafe nsw launches landmark arts degree at Kingswood

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jobs renaissance in the arts sector has prompted TAFE NSW Kingswood to offer its first ever dedicated degree course – a Bachelor of Creative Practice.

To commence in semester one 2021, the Bachelor of Creative Practice is aimed at arming creatives with the real skills – and business nous – to forge a career in the arts.

According to a new report by the BYP Group titled NSW Creative Industries: An Economic Snapshot, NSW boasts 42 per cent of the nation’s creative jobs and produces 70 per cent of Australia’s creative industry exports.

It also found that over the past five years, employment growth in the NSW creative industries was almost double the average growth rate of other professions.

TAFE NSW Head Teacher of Visual Arts, Cath Barcan, said as automation continued to reshape the workforce, demand for creative skills was surging.

“The cultural sector is growing like crazy. All tiers of government now make it part of their business to provide the community with cultural pursuits and more jobs are opening.

“There are so many creative businesses springing up and so many surprising career paths in the arts, from

art education and administration to curating galleries or starting your own art business,” Ms Barcan said.

Ms Barcan said the landmark degree offered flexible face-to-face teaching in the renowned arts facility at TAFE NSW Kingswood. Each semester,

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students will undertake two handson subjects in the studio, and two other subjects spanning art history and theory, art entrepreneurship and innovation.

“This degree will ensure that artists have the practical skills and experience

that they need to pursue a career in visual arts or open their own business.

To find out more about studying the Bachelor of Creative Practice at TAFE NSW Kingswood from semester one, phone 131 601 or visit www.tafensw. edu.au/courses/art-and-design-courses

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Nepean News 10 December 2020 Issue 292

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local news

Break down barriers and see ability

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A range of residents with disability received “arty, crafty” kits and were inspired by creative tips from local art makers via zoom workshops.

“We know that one in five Australians has a disability, so it is important we do all we can to make Penrith inclusive and accessible,” Cr McKeown said.

“Council’s IDPwD Art Project has brought isolated members of our community together to explore their creativity and learn something new.

It’s also given the broader community a chance to celebrate their talents.”

The completed works will be displayed in the Penrith Central Library from 3 December until the end of the year. To see the IDPwD Art Project film go to: www.vimeo.com/ user113418974/review/480983146/ be3339daf5

enrith City Council has launched an art exhibition and video to celebrate International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD).

The exhibition features works created by local residents with disability and the video, created in partnership with Uniting, documents their creative journey.

Penrith Mayor, Karen McKeown OAM said IDPwD was the perfect opportunity to talk about and celebrate the contributions and achievements of people of all abilities, break down barriers and “see the ability in disability”.

“In previous years, we’ve worked with local disability services to host an event in the Mondo but this year, due to COVID-19 concerns, we coordinated a remote art project,” Cr McKeown said.

State Government empowering people with disability People with disability will receive better and more reliable support as part of the NSW Government’s plan to bolster the rapidly growing disability support sector and promote more inclusive and accessible communities.

Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services Gareth Ward said International Day of People with Disability is an opportunity to increase public awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disability.

“The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is transforming the way people with disability are supported and cared for and today is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of people, their carers and the workforce,” Mr Ward said.

“But the reality is not everyone is eligible to access the NDIS, which is why our Government

has reinforced its commitment to provide important advocacy and inclusion services for all people with disability living in NSW.” The 2020-21 NSW Budget included a $3.5 billion investment in the NDIS, and more than $112.5 million over the next four years for disability advocacy and inclusion services, including the new Disability Advocacy Futures Program.

An additional $17 million has been committed to boost jobs in the rapidly growing disability support sector, so that service providers can attract and upskill staff.

Minister Ward also announced changes to Disability Inclusion Action Plans (DIAP), governing how NSW Government agencies and Councils break down barriers and create more inclusive and accessible communities. Robust new guidelines

will hold government accountable for creating real change in line with the review of the NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014.

“Every Government agency and Council in NSW has a DIAP, and these new guidelines will drive changes that enable people with disability to enjoy more opportunities to participate in the community,” Mr Ward said.

“The changes embed the voices of people with lived experience at the centre of development, implementation and monitoring of DIAPs, with a stronger focus on outcomes that empower people to reach their full potential.”

As of 30 September 2020, more than 133,000 people across the State are accessing services and support through the NDIS, more than 66,000 for the first time.

Water restrictions lifted in time for summer holidays

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rom December 1, 2020, Level 1 Water restrictions for Greater Sydney, the Blue Mountains and Illawarra were lifted and replaced with Water Wise Guidelines.

Minister for Water Property and Housing, Melinda Pavey said Greater Sydney has done a great job saving water during one of the worst droughts on record.

“People across Greater Sydney have done an outstanding job during water restrictions, collectively saving 77 gigalitres of water – the equivalent of 31,000 Olympic-size swimming pools.

Since March 2020 water use is down 7.5 per cent,” Mrs Pavey said.

“The new Water Wise Guidelines follow common-sense behaviours we have seen over the past 12 months.

While we want everyone to enjoy water this summer, we need to remember to use it wisely.

“The heat wave over the weekend meant 3.7 gigalitres of water was consumed Friday and Saturday, the most consumed over two days for 2020, a timely reminder how quickly dam levels can change.”

Mrs Pavey said water restrictions have helped curtail demand by around 65ML per day, taking pressure off the filtration plant to provide clean water from Sydney’s dams which have been impacted by bushfires and heavy rainfall.

“We’ve been through drought, bushfires and floods and we know things can change dramatically very quickly, ” Mrs Pavey said.

“While water restrictions will be

lifted from midnight tonight, we are encouraging people to continue to practice their good water behaviour habits along the guidelines of the Level 1 water restrictions.”

Under Water Wise Guidelines, tap water can be used to water lawns and gardens before 10am and after 4pm, if using a hand-held hose fitted with a trigger nozzle, standard watering systems or supervised sprinklers.

Exemption permits for households and businesses will no longer be required. For more information visit here. Sydney Water vision can be found here.

Under the new Water Wise Guidelines, YOU CAN use drinking water to: • water lawns and gardens before 10am and after 4pm using a handheld hose fitted with a trigger nozzle, standard watering systems, or SUPERVISED sprinklers • water new turf and gardens at any time for up to 28 days • water lawns and gardens with drip irrigation systems or ‘smart water systems’ at any time • top up pools and spas to replace water lost through evaporation • fill new or renovated pools and spas • wash vehicles with a hand-held hose fitted with a trigger nozzle or high-pressure cleaning equipment • clean buildings (including windows, walls and gutters) with a hand-held hose fitted with a trigger nozzle or high-pressure cleaning equipment • cool down people or animals.

local news

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he 2sqm rule will be expanded and venue caps will be removed under a major easing of restrictions, as NSW continues to record zero cases of community transmission.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the timing is right to ease restrictions and replace the 4sqm rule with the 2sqm rule, except at gyms and nightclubs.

“We are grateful to the people in NSW for their patience and understanding over what has been an incredibly difficult year,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“The rolling back of restrictions across the State is only possible because of the excellent work of the community who have followed social distancing guidelines and continued to come forward for testing.”

On Monday, 7 December, the NSW Government will ease the following restrictions allowing: Venues including hospitality venues, retail and places of worship: • 1 person per 2sqm (with 25 people permitted before the rule applies), except for: o Gyms and nightclubs (1 person per 4sqm, with a maximum of 50 people allowed in gym classes or on

the dancefloor at nightclubs) Stadiums and theatres: • Outdoors: 100 per cent seated capacity, and 1 person per 2sqm rule for unstructured seating areas.

• Indoors: 75 per cent seated capacity.

Gatherings in outdoor public spaces: • Up to 100 people for outdoor gatherings (up from 50).

• Up to 5,000 people for outdoor

events that are fenced, ticketed and seated (subject to the 2sqm rule).

• Up to 3,000 people for other organised outdoor events i.e. community sport and outdoor protests (subject to the 2sqm rule).

Dance Floors: • Up to 50 people indoors.

Singing • Up to 50 performers indoors, no maximum cap outdoors.

• Advice is for congregation/

audience to continue wearing masks if singing.

Under the changes, maximum capacity caps will be removed subject to the 2sqm rule for: • Bookings at hospitality venues; • Weddings; • Funerals; • Regional agricultural shows; • Corporate events; and • Religious services.

Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said the NSW Government would continue to work with business and industry to ensure they operate in a COVID-Safe way.

“We have worked closely with industry representatives throughout 2020 to safely ease restrictions and we appreciate their patience and know these changes will be incredibly well received,” Mr Ayres said.

NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant said despite there being no recent cases of community transmission the community should continue to be COVID-Safe.

“It is critical that people continue to come forward for testing and practice COVID-safe behaviour when out and about and catching up with family and friends,” Dr Chant said.

Nepean News 10 December 2020 Issue 292

Major rolling back of covid-19 restrictions in nsw

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Nepean News 10 December 2020 Issue 292

14

local news NSW Police roll-up their sleeves for third annual ‘Bleed4Blue’ blood drive

M

embers of the NSW Police Force, friends and family are rolling up their sleeves to donate blood as part of the third annual ‘Bleed4Blue’ blood drive.

Bleed4Blue 2020, a three-month law enforcement-focused blood drive, was officially launched by NSW Police Force Commissioner Michael Fuller APM and Det Sgt Breda at the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood Town Hall Donor Centre, on Tuesday 1 December 2020.

The campaign is run throughout the summer months in partnership with the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood and was established following the stabbing of Detective Sergeant John Breda on Australia Day 2018.

Det Sgt John Breda lost almost 12 litres of blood as the medical team worked to save his life after he was stabbed during a police operation at Maroubra.

It took more than 100 bags of blood to keep him alive, including 48 bags in one six-hour surgery.

Commissioner Fuller said John’s fight for life emphasised – particularly

within the NSW Police Force – the importance of regularly donating blood.

“It is the nature of our work that we frequently attend situations where people need blood, but that day really brought it home to our police family just how vital blood supply is,” Commissioner Fuller said.

“One of our own survived due to the generosity of those who donated, and Bleed4Blue is our chance to show our appreciation and ensure blood supplies are there for someone else’s loved one.

“During last year’s campaign, we – along with our law-enforcement

colleagues from across Australia – donated some 4600 litres of blood, which helped save 12,000 lives.

“We hope that with help of the community even more people will benefit from this year’s Bleed4Blue, so if you are in a position to give blood or plasma, please donate too,” Commissioner Fuller said.

Since its inception, the Bleed4Blue campaign has generated more than 8600 blood donations and helped save at least 25,000 lives.

Australian Red Cross Lifeblood’s Steven Eldridge said while the organisation was thrilled with the

response to Lifeblood’s recent appeal, the need for blood is ongoing.

“Historically, we see a drop in the number of people donating over long weekends or public holidays, and donations are needed every day this December,” Mr Eldridge said.

“Bleed 4 Blue is one of the nation’s largest blood drives, and we are fortunate to have the support of NSW Police to help boost blood supplies.

“The patients this challenge supports includes people undergoing treatment for cancer, newborns, those undergoing emergency surgery, those involved in road accidents and so many more.”

The ‘Bleed4Blue’ campaign runs until the end of February 2021 and will again challenge police from across Australia to take part to see which state or territory can donate the most blood.

The NSW Police Force is the defending champion, donating almost 1100 bags of blood during last year’s challenge.

For more information on donating visit www.donateblood.com.au/bleed4-blue.

Police files Woman suffers head injury after fall Kingswood A 40-year-old woman has fallen down two flights of stairs and sustained head injuries at a Kingswood parking lot last week. The woman lost consciousness from the impact.

CareFlight’s Rapid Response Helicopter was tasked by NSW Ambulance shortly after 8:50am and landed 15 minutes later in Kingswood Oval. NSW Police escorted the clinical team to the scene of the incident where NSW Ambulance paramedics were providing initial treatment.

CareFlight’s specialist doctor and NSW Ambulance critical care paramedic performed a clinical assessment on the woman, including an ultrasound to assess her injuries. The patient was intubated and CareFlight’s clinical team placed her in an induced coma to stabilise her.

The woman was taken by road with NSW Ambulance under ongoing observation from CareFlight’s clinical team to Westmead Hospital in a stable condition.

Six teens injured when all-terrain vehicle tips – Mulgoa Six teens have been injured after an all-terrain vehicle tipped over at a property near Penrith at the end of last month.

Emergency services were called to a property on Square Dam Road at Mulgoa shortly before 6pm on Sunday 29 November, and found eight teens had been thrown from the vehicle when it tipped onto its side.

Five NSW Ambulance paramedic crews attended by road and a medical team was airlifted to the scene.

A teenage girl was airlifted to Westmead Hospital while a second girl was been taken by road ambulance to Liverpool Hospital. A further four teens were taken to Nepean Hospital for assessment; police have been told the injuries are not considered life-threatening.

Officers from Nepean Police Area Command understand three teens were seated in the front of the vehicle and five were in the tray at the time.

The Crash Investigation Unit (CIU) have been onsite examining the scene.

Man dies after being shot – Tregear A man has died after being shot at his home last week.

Officers from Mt Druitt Police Area Command were called to a granny flat in Rymill Street, Tregear, shortly after 2.35am on Monday 30 November, after reports two men had forced their way into the flat and attacked the resident.

Police arrived to find a 30-year-old man suffering gunshot wounds to his leg and shoulder. NSW Ambulance paramedics began treating the man; however, he died at the scene.

A crime scene has been established and an investigation is now underway by detectives attached to Mt Druitt PAC, assisted by State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad.

Investigators are appealing to anyone with information about this to contact Mt Druitt Police or Crime Stoppers.

Man charged at Emu Plains business over alleged sexual assault of teenage girl A man has appeared in court charged over the alleged grooming and sexual assault of a teenage girl he met on social media.

The weekend before last, police received reports a 14-year-old girl had been groomed and sexually assaulted by a man she met through a social media application.

Detectives from the State Crime Command’s Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad commenced an investigation and following inquiries arrested an 18-year-old man at a business at Emu Plains about 1.30pm on Tuesday 1 December.

He was taken to Penrith Police Station and charged with two counts of aggravated sexual assault (victim under the age of 16 years) and two counts of groom child for unlawful sexual activity.

Police will allege in court that the man sexually assaulted the girl on two separate occasions at parks in Sydney’s south-west in November this year.

The man was refused bail to appear at Penrith Local Court.

Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad Commander, Detective Acting Superintendent Michael Haddow, said the incident is a timely reminder for parents and carers to speak with young people about potential dangers online.

“While social media apps allow us to be better connected with people we know, they also provide opportunity for people we don’t know to connect with us – and this includes strangers talking to our children,” Det A/Supt Haddow said.

“For young people, any online platform that allows them to be in contact with people they do not know – and have only met in the online environment – can put them at risk.

“We know that sexual predators may use the online environment to target children, so it is imperative that all young people know what to do if they are exposed to explicit or inappropriate conversations.

“It is common for young people to feel uncomfortable reporting these types of conversations, so I urge parents and carers to make sure they’re assured that they don’t need to be embarrassed or upset.

“From a police perspective our priority is protecting children from any type of harm, and we will track down anyone who uses the internet to groom and/or procure children for sex.

“I want to remind everyone to be careful about providing personal details on social media, especially to someone they only know online, and take extreme caution if making plans to meet up – consider whether you really know who it is you are meeting,” Det A/Supt Haddow said.

local news

S

tuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith welcomed the announcement that the Sustainable Schools Grants program is now open, a program that supports students to develop innovative sustainability projects at their schools Schools in Penrith can now apply for grants of up to $15,000 to assist in developing innovative handson projects to make their school environment more sustainable.

Stuart Ayres said he was excited to see the second round of applications open, assisting in developing students with hands-on projects.

“The Sustainable Schools Grants is providing schools in Penrith with the opportunity to learn about being sustainable with hands-on experience,” said Stuart Ayres Under round one of the program, two local schools received grants including: Leonay Public School received $10,449 for its Sustainability Hub. The school has developed a sustainability area with 11 worm farms and 7 irrigated garden beds, including a bush tucker garden, which is now producing organic food.

Penrith Public School received $15,000 for its 2020 Kitchen Garden Teacher Program. Funding, which was used to employ a specialised Kitchen Garden Teacher. Students have learnt how to grow, harvest, prepare and share meals following the Stephanie Alexander method on a shoe-string budget.

The NSW Government is committed to $10 million over four years to support hands-on sustainability projects for our NSW public schools.

The school projects funded by the grants must be interactive for students to assist in students learning about sustainability, linked to the curriculum, and improved the sustainability of the school environment.

These grants aim to inspire students and school communities to develop ideas and implement plans that will benefit the environment.

Minister for Education Sarah Mitchell expressed her excitement of round two as she discussed innovative ways schools used the funding.

“Last year we saw 194 school projects receiving

the sustainability grant, these included a variety of kitchen gardens, water storage strategies, and even bee highways to improve biodiversity,” Ms Mitchell said.

The second round of grant application can be submitted until 5 pm, 11th December, and the successful applicant will be notified Term 1 2021.

The NSW Government is investing $6.7 billion over four years to deliver more than 190 new and upgraded schools to support communities across NSW. This is the largest investment in public education infrastructure in the history of NSW.

Nepean News 10 December 2020 Issue 292

Green thumbs for Penrith schools

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Nepean News 10 December 2020 Issue 292

16

HEALTH

Aboriginal community launches smoking safety message

W

estern Sydney Aboriginal community members have launched a new ‘Smoke-free home’ campaign to protect family members and children from breathing harmful passive smoke.

Launched at Mount Druitt Hospital Aboriginal Health Hub, the campaign was developed with local Aboriginal community members and health staff in Mount Druitt.

The message about smoking further away from the home is delivered in the form of a 45 second cartoon, and comes at an important time during COVID-19 with families spending more time at home.

Passive smoke comes from the end of a burning cigarette or is breathed out by a smoker. It is dangerous to breathe in passive smoke that can linger in the air. Children are at a higher risk of severe asthma, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and middle ear infections from breathing in passive smoke.

Shana Mason from Mount Druitt, who helped design the campaign, said the message will resonate with the community.

“Aboriginal families are very protective of their kids and more people are smoking outside the home.

However, there are still people who

smoke too close and passive smoke gets back inside – they just don’t realise how much smoke gets in,” Shana said.

“It isn’t easy to quit smoking for a lot of people. The smoke-free home cartoon is a little story to remind smokers they can do one quick, easy thing: just move further away to smoke so that kids don’t have to breathe it in.”

It is important to move well away from the home or any open windows and doors to smoke. This will help prevent harmful smoke from drifting back into the home.

Community members may have seen the smoke-free home cartoon screened at local cinemas and in GP waiting rooms in Parramatta, Mount Druitt and Blacktown. It also

featured on social media, posters on local public transport, and at local Aboriginal community centres.

Watch the video: https://youtu.be/ tlZ8hUMMkmo For more information or to be involved in the campaign promotion, please contact Sarah Ip on 9840 3708 or Sarah.Ip@health.nsw.gov.au.

The NSW Government invests more than $17 million annually on tobacco control programs.

For information about how to quit smoking, call Quitline NSW on 13 7848.

WSLHD is committed to a range of initiatives to promote the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal people, and is working towards a three percent Aboriginal employment target by 2025.

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local news tuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith welcomes the announcement that a total of 95 Bert Evans Apprentice Scholarships for 2020 worth a total of $1.425 million to apprentices across NSW have been awarded.

The scholarships are worth $5,000 each year over three years. They support apprentices who are experiencing financial or personal hardship, demonstrate a high aptitude for vocational education and training, and are committed to their on and off the job training.

Stuart Ayres said scholarship winners have shown tremendous determination to develop their skills in vocational education and training and should be commended for it.”

“A Bert Evans scholarship is a tremendous honour and I know the $5000 will be put to good use. The NSW Government will always back our apprentices and look for opportunities to assist them in their educational journey,” Stuart Ayres said.

“I want to congratulate the

winners in the Penrith region and encourage them to continue developing their skills to enhance their careers.”

Local recipients include: • Shayna Logan • Gabriel Methner • Tyrrell Zammit • Zac Redding Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education Geoff Lee said the scholarship program is named in honour of the late Bert Evans AO, a passionate advocate of vocational education for more than 30 years.

“An apprenticeship is a great way to kick-start a career, and apprentices are vital to our State’s growth, but we also understand it’s not always easy to complete a qualification,” Mr Lee said.

“In some cases, they may be the sole supporters of their family and have difficulty buying tools for their trade while others travel hundreds of kilometres just to attend their formal training.

“This support is particularly relevant as part of the NSW Government’s COVID-19 Recovery Plan.”

Stuart Ayres MP, Ms Shayna Logan & Mr Gabriel Methner

Golden Jubilee JPs Stuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith presented three of the state’s longest serving Justices of the Peace, with their commendation certificates for 50 years of service.

“It is a wonderful achievement to have provided this important voluntary service to the community for such a long period of time and today’s certificate recipients are well deserving of this recognition,” said Stuart Ayres.

“Most people require the services of a JP at some point in their life and these JPs have been on hand to offer their assistance.”

Local Penrith recipients include: Mr Gordon Neil, Mr John Cowen, Mr Raymond Carlin, Mr Robert Sheridan, Ms Rhonda Crimston and Mr James Mason.

Justices of the Peace serve as an independent witness to documents people use for official or legal purposes. Their duties include witnessing the signing of statutory declarations and certifying copies of original documents. JPs provide their services on a voluntary basis.

For more information on JPs or to find one in your local area please visit: www.jp.nsw.gov.au.

Mr John Cowen, Mr James Mason, Mr Raymond Carlin, Stuart Ayres MP

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Nepean News 10 December 2020 Issue 292

S

Local scholarship winners announced

17

Legends of the Nepean Albert & Merle Blatch

Albert & Merle’s Wedding

By Noel Rowsell

A

lbert and Merle Blatch are among the oldest-living residents of Penrith, with Merle living in the area for her entire life (91 years) and Albert (also 91 years of age) living locally from the age of 7 (84 years).

Merle was born in Warwick Street Penrith and attended Penrith PS, Penrith HS and the Metropolitan Business College.

Albert was born in Epping and attended Epping PS and Parramatta HS. Both were members of the Penrith Church of England in Penrith and met when they were both teaching in Sunday School.

They were married in 1950 at the same church, with Merle’s family all donating their highly-prized Government-issued clothing coupons so Merle could buy her wedding dress.

The couple lived in Warwick Street in a house built by Merle’s grandfather, Mr. T.D. Clissold (who also built most of the surrounding homes, offices, Henry Street School and the old Penrith Hospital), before moving to 5 acres in Regentville in 1970.

Albert joined the Regentville Bush Fire Brigade and was captain for a period of time, with the fire truck housed in a shed at the back of Albert and Merle’s property.

Albert joined Westpac in 1945 as a 15-year old and initially worked in the branch in Wollongong.

He served with the bank for the next 40 years in Auburn, St Marys, Lidcombe, Rockdale and the Migrant Advisory Centre, assisting migrants with their banking arrangements.

He also spent four years in Canberra, before returning as Manager of Penrith Branch from where he retired in 1985.

Merle was Dux at Shorthand at the Metropolitan Business College and first worked as a Stenographer for Lamrock and later worked as a Secretary at the Commonwealth Teaching Service.

The couple had 3 children (Peter, Sue and Rosemary), have 9 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren (with another 2 on the way).

Merle and Albert were Charter members of the Glenmore Park Probus Club in 2002 and would leave there in 2007 to become Charter members of the Penrith South Probus Club.

Merle has also been a member of Inner Wheel for 30 years, working

Merle & Albert Blatch - 50th Anniversary

respectively as President and Secretary, whilst Albert was a member of Penrith Rotary for 30 years.

Albert’s father worked for Meals on Wheels during his life and well into his 80’s and Albert joined in as a young man, continuing on with the organisation after his father passed away.

Merle took Albert’s father’s place and they would both continue working with Meals on Wheels from 19962015.

Both Albert and Merle were avid tennis players and with a court on their

Albert, Merle, Rosemary, Sue, Peter - 90th Birthday Party

own property, playing competitively 2-3 nights per week.

They later moved from tennis to golf and were both members of Wallacia Country Club, before making their final sporting move to Penrith Bowling Club (PBC), where they have now been members for 10-12 years.

Merle was also the President of the PBC for a year.

Albert and Merle have strong memories of Penrith in the early years, recalling when Jamison Road was the ‘end of town’.

There was a stock route through

town, which went along Jamison Road to finish at Hall the Butcher’s holding paddocks.

Unlike today in Penrith, where overhead crossings allow an unhindered passage across the western rail line, early Penrith featured Railway Crossings at Kingswood, Lemongrove, Clissold Park and Castlereagh Road.

Many people catching the train to Sydney at the Kingswood gates would simply wait for the train to slow down on the incline, then jump aboard as it slowly rumbled through the town.

Now living on a portion of their initial 5 acres, Albert and Merle have family close at hand and recently celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary with a Covid-friendly family gathering.

Albert & Merle Blatch were nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Craig Blatch.

If you know a local legend, send us a nomination at nepeannews@aol.com

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Nepean News 10 December 2020 Issue 292

20

local news Holy Spirit Primary School benefits from upgraded flooring Follow Mr Danny Tribute on

Penrith Men’s Walk and Talk What began a casual stroll now has incredible momentum, Six mates arm in arm – what was it that inspired them?

Sadly the common link was men were losing the battle, Poor mental health leading to suicide for families to have to tackle.

‘Mens Walk and Talk’ now established and with dedication they walk, Each and every week men set off and are encouraged to talk.

Rain, hail or shine the journey will always be tread, A full lap around the river, mate ship and conversations are spread.

I’d like to raise a glass to those who are championing change, Normal blokes coming together helping males of any age.

Kevin Canning, Paul Wallace, Al Harding, and Jamie Large, Add in Billy Beggs and WestCare’s Andrew Paech - all leading the charge.

Though awareness and local support, the bond and numbers have grown, With a simple but powerful mantra, that ‘No Man Walks Alone.’

Some walk for the company or to be there in support, Many of these men are lonely and have joined as a last resort.

So if it’s you this walk would benefit, or your neighbour or a mate, It’s on again next Thursday, so come along and participate.

Read more tributes at www.mrdannytribute.com.au

H

oly Spirit Primary School in St Clair have received a $25,000 grant towards the installation of brand new flooring in the school’s multi-purpose area as part of the NSW Government’s 2019 Community Building Partnership Program.

Member for Mulgoa, Tanya Davies congratulates Holy Spirit Primary School on the completed works which provide a safer environment for the school community.

“This is a great win for Holy Spirit

Primary School!” Mrs Davies said.

“The upgrades to the school’s facilities will encourage cohesive learning and provide a more inviting environment for students, teachers and parents to engage in events and activities.”

The Community Building Partnership Program continues to support local projects all across NSW. To find out more information about the Program, visit https://www.nsw. gov.au/projects/community-buildingpartnership

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Accomplish (7) 5 Methods, schemes,

procedures (7) 9 Returning a tape to

the beginning (9) 10 Result (5) 11 Astounding (7) 12 Pamphlet (7) 13 Compulsion (9) 15 Romany (5) 17 North African

country (5) 19 Gamblers (9) 22 Not a brand-name

drug (7) 25 French for “New” (7) 26 Dissonant sound (5) 27 Lured (9) 28 Make rough (7) 29 Feared (7))

solution 26/11/20

down 1 Melange or hodgepodge (7) 2 In an illegal manner (9) 3 Not metamorphic (7) 4 Lingering (9) 5 A signet (5) 6 “The whole ________” (7) 7 Artist’s workstand (5) 8 In an affectionate manner (7) 14 Put forward (9) 16 Forestalled (9) 17 Causing the improvement in

offspring (7) 18 Gun enclosures (7) 20 Cassock (7) 21 Fathomed (7) 23 Nigerian monetary unit (5) 24 Secure or fasten (5)

local news

“One Meal – It Makes a Difference’ is a notfor-profit community organisation that helps to feed, clothe and support the homeless and underprivileged.

By Noel Rowsell

J

oanne Oliver is the coordinator of ‘One Meal – It Makes a Difference’ at Blacktown, which provides a Free Community Dinner in Alpha Park Hall every Saturday afternoon.

Joanne was nominated as Quest and Avli’s Second Local Hero by Hayley Sherriff, who said Joanne began volunteering over three years ago.

Twelve months back she took over the coordination of the service, organising both food and household items, for those doing it tough - including the homeless.

“Every Saturday Joanne and her team feed over 40 people, with Joanne making many of the dishes and providing clothes and belongings with her own money and time,” said Hayley.

“This is all volunteer work and she (Joanne) absolutely loves it, she spends time throughout her week finding housing for those who can’t access shelter, she organises essentials for those in homes with nothing to cook or keep them or their families warm and she feeds anyone who calls and needs some food packs there and then,” said Hayley.

“She (Joanne) is an amazing woman and is saving lives in our community.”

“We get families, elderly people

Phil Willey (CEO Quest Apartments), Joanne Oliver (Local Hero), Kiriakos (Kerry) Tsaparopoulos. Photo by Noel Rowsell

and others who are struggling in Penrith and the lower Blue Mts, the Hawkesbury (although there is also a service in Windsor), St Marys, Mt Druitt, Blacktown and Riverstone,” said Joanne.

We initially thought we would only get the homeless but a lot of people in Western Sydney are struggling.

We go to Foodbank on Friday to obtain fruit and vegetables and Saturday is spent cooking and preparing meals.

We have a great team of volunteers and are always eager to see new people volunteering, whether it be with their

time, consumable goods or clothing.”

Anyone wishing to donate any services or items can find details on the One Meal Blacktown Facebook page (1) One Meal - Blacktown | Facebook or on their website http://onemeal.org. au/ The youngest volunteers are teenagers, including Joanne’s daughter Chelsea and son Lucas, whilst the oldest is Joanne’s father Fred (in his 80’s) and Rosie, who is 75. They not only cook meals every Saturday but prior to Covid-19, also served the meals in Alpha Park.

Joanne was presented with her

prizes by Quest Penrith Franchisee Phil Willey and the owner of Avli Greek Restaurant Kiriakos (Kerry) Tsaparopoulos on Thursday afternoon.

She and husband Peter will both enjoy one night’s accommodation at Quest Penrith Apartment Hotel as well as dinner at Avli Restaurant at a time of her choosing.

Joanne said she was overwhelmed by the award and the break will be a welcome night off. “I’m very grateful to have been nominated by Hayley, to Quest and Avli for this lovely prize and for the opportunity to create awareness for One Meal” said Joanne.

Nepean News 10 December 2020 Issue 292

Avli & Quest Local Hero - Joanne Oliver

21

local news

W

The G Spot

ell folks the good news is, its only 3 Fridays until Christmas (Yippee… sigh) and winter is over (Yippee with back flip and pelvic thrust). I dunno about you people, but I reckon winter is like a prison sentence and quite frankly you get less time for murder than a stint in a Penrith winter. I have stalagmites and stalactites in places that should be illegal. Friggin’ snow, rain, sleet... where’s the sun? Just Sayn.

I must say that I am extremely humbled by the amount of people who say they read my Gspot and it reaches out to them in some way. They even share their experiences with me, such as the lady that said she read the story about us guarding a wet square of concrete that was about as interesting as paint drying. She stated that guarding a wet slab of concrete would have been great in the case of the mongrel cat from across the road walking over her

outback area, and leaving paw prints in the wet concrete. A local group that changed the way they deliver money to the bank because I highlighted in a story of how stupid people are (I mean, how complacent people may be at times).

A wonderful group of golden oldies that share my Gspot around at a local nursing home, apparently one laughed so hard that he swallowed his dentures and almost choked, however thankfully, after being revived and hospitalised, the Hospital also had my Gspot there and he was able to continue reading while getting his oesophagus pumped for floating crowns. Bonus!

I was asked by an avid celebrity crazed-type fan one day, where I get my inspiration for stories from -as he plonked himself down beside me, gorging himself on something that looked like a subway or a scene from evil dead.

With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security

I explained that I simply write about my life experiences, to help enlighten and fulfil the needs of my avid and most dedicated loyal readers. Then as he finished off whatever the hell he was eating, he burped and said “So what’s ya next story about darl?”, as he missed a gherkin onto his t-shirt and back snorted 15 years worth of phlegm.

With puppy eyes, he waited on my answer…..

Well, I stated, the next story will be about a lovely (good looking and young-looking lady) that was sitting quietly doing traffic control and security (minding her own business), when a gentleman with his fly down and half his bum crack hanging out, eating a subway in a way that should only be suitable for a crime scene, politely asks her how she gets her inspiration for stories?

Elated, he then jumped up and said “I can’t wait to read that”!

Yes folks I’ve had some wonderful experiences in my 26 years doing security, I was driving through Badgerys Creek the other day and remembered many many moons ago, guarding the gate of the electricity site “Transgrid” in 45 degree heat , during the Gulf War and there was a bull that had a “ Bull Crush” on me. He spent 12 hours trying to …well seduce me so to speak, then I sat in my car and he got so frustrated that he nudged the side of my car, the side of the car ended up having more hits than Elvis ever had by the end of the shift.

So there you have it, we have covered winter and how it sucks, throwing my Gspot (column) around a nursing home and causing an injury, answering avid fan’s inspirational questions, while learning a new technique of eating a subway and sharing bodily functions.

Please note that no Bulls were harmed in the writing of this column.

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Secret debate

Should the ABC be defunded?

He Says................................. ...................She Says When we talk about the the ABC we should remember it is a television and radio network and has been a fully stateowned corporation since 1932 as the Australian Broadcasting Commission.

ABC Editorial Policy is “... the ABC gather and present news and information with impartiality and presents a diversity of perspectives so that, over time, no significant strand of thought or belief within the community is knowingly excluded or disproportionately represented. The broadcaster is expected to take no editorial stance other than a commitment to fundamental democratic principles.”

Is the ABC left-leaning, maybe. But no more than you would class the commercial channels as right-leaning. On the other hand, SKY, is so far right leaning, it should be horizontal. I think the term “left leaning” means you report the facts even if conservatives don’t like them.

A recent survey showed 19 journalists went on to political positions. 10 to ALP and 9 to Conservatives, about as balanced as you can get.

Some things to consider when assessing the ABC:

WIN!

The cost to taxpayers of funding the ABC is about 9 cents per day, Survey after survey shows the ABC is the most trusted news source, It has produced a lot of the most welltrained actual “journalists”, It has provided some of the best, most innovative television shows like Countdown for one, many of which were so successful they moved into the more lucrative commercial market, ie: Kath and Kim, Patrol Boat, Good News Week, Norman Gunston Show to name a few.

ABC were the first to bring in full election tally coverage, They provide for metro and regional Australia with shows like “Landline” etc, In an emergency or disaster, they provide the best source of coverage and information that those effected can rely on, We need the ABC just as much as political parties from all persuasions have over time all wanted to silence “Aunty” The ABC is our voice to the rest of the world.

Let’s put the naysayers back in their little boxes, protect the ABC and make sure “the truth is always out there.”

.....................

Nepean News 10 December 2020 Issue 292

22

I’m not sure that I’d go as far as to say we should de-fund the ABC, but at the very least I think they should be held to account and made to lift their game.

There are a lot of great shows on the network; some funny comedies, some quirky low budget game shows and interesting documentaries.

But then there’s the political shows. For me, that’s where the problem lies, because they are not even subtly biased towards the left.

Sure, there are programs and even entire networks who are equally as biased towards the right (hello Sky!) but there’s a very significant difference.

We choose whether or not we want to pay for the right to

Who do you agree with? Send your vote to nepeannews@aol.com for a chance to win a double pass to lunch on the Nepean Belle

WHO’S WINNING

view Sky News. If we don’t like what they preach, we don’t buy. It’s very simple.

By stark contrast, we do not have a choice in whether our taxes will prop up the ABC and their often opiniated drivel. Their news programs, interviews and political shows always have that cringeworthy tilt to the left often outrageously so. How can it be the right thing that the political world-view of our national broadcaster, is not one of balance, but one of bias?

That’s about a baby step off brain-washing a nation.

We are living in times where there’s outrage over the slightest smell favouritism in any other balanced arena. It is ludicrous that we continue to allow this to go on without calling it what it is and demanding better.

Not defund, but definitely reform.

Schoolies week - Trash or Treasure?

HE WINS

Saints Leagues Club says a big thank you!

By KeRRIE DAVIES

A

s a token of appreciation to those volunteers in our community that make a difference, St Marys Rugby League Club & Signatures, their new seated buffet restaurant, simply wanted to SAY THANKS and that they did.

On Tuesday Saints & Signatures hosted a Christmas Luncheon for those hard-working volunteers to enjoy a Christmas lunch and share in the spirit of Christmas.

appreciated being recognised at the end of what has been an incredibly challenging year.

“It is inconceivable that Australia would face four devastating events in a matter of just 12 months with drought, fire, flood and the COVID-19 pandemic. These events have decimated families, communities, businesses, livelihoods, our previous wildlife and occasionally our spirits,” said Marketing Manager Cathy Rowley.

Those enjoying the festivities included volunteers and board members from The Salvation Army Youthlink Reconnect Program, PCYC, The Haven Women’s Shelter, Penrith Community Kitchen, Mama Lana’s Kitchen and Your Community Needs St Marys.

“We know our community is hurting like never before and people are struggling but we also know that when times are tough there are those amazing gems in our community that just “step up” and provide the strength and inspiration for everyone else to carry on.”

The vibe in the room was very festive, and the volunteers

And a big thank you to Saints for putting on such a great day!

Social Butterfly

Nepean News 10 December 2020 Issue 292

24

local news

Twin Creeks Golf & Country Club

Penrith GC (Blue) and Twin Creeks Golf & CC (White) have both won promotion to Division 1 in 2021.

By Noel Rowsell

T

win Creeks Golf & Country Club has created history in the 2020 Golf NSW Major Pennant season, capturing the Division 2 Pennant Flag and Trophy.

Both Twin Creeks and grand final opponent Penrith GC will now be promoted to Division 1 for the 2021 season, which also creates even more history for both clubs.

Twin Creeks results throughout the preliminary season in Section 2 were: Round One: Twin Creeks 3.5-3.5 draw with Manly, Round 2: Twin Creeks 4-3 over Manly, Round 3: Twin Creeks 4-3 over RydeParramatta, Round 4: Twin Creeks 5.5-1.5 over Ryde Parramatta, Round 5: Killara 4.5-2.5 over Twin Creeks, Round 6: Twin Creeks 5.5-1.5 over Killara.

The members of the Twin Creeks Golf & Country Club with the 2020 Golf NSW Division 2 Pennant Flag and Trophy. Photo by Noel Rowsell

In the semi-finals, Twin Creeks defeated Section 3 winner North Ryde 4-3 in their first leg at North Ryde, then won the second leg 5-2 at Twin Creeks.

The Twin Creeks Major Pennant squad is: Matt Devries, Chris McMillan, Tyrone Emtage (captain), Justin McMillan, Jeremy White,

Penrith players Wil Arnold, Dan Smyth and Jeff Gadd.

Wayne Loveridge, John Glasheen (vice captain), James Tolomeo, Paul Borg, Jordan Bratusa, manager Glenn Johnston.

local news

Photo by Noel Rowsell

The Twin Creeks Club was opened in 2006 and their first entry into MajorPennants was in Division 2, where they were habitually strong contenders.

A gliche in performance resulted in the Club being relegated to Division 3 in 2016 but an immediate Premiership victory in the lower division saw the club promptly returned to Division 2 in 2017 and now with even more success, win promotion to Division 1 for 2021.

Prior to the Final, Twin Creeks team manager Johnston said “Our (Twin Creeks GC) goal in Major Pennants was to be competitive in Division 2 but we are delighted to get into Division 1.

When we won promotion back into Division 2 in 2017, then-Club

Professional Asif Haddad and I resolved an ongoing ambition to only use Twin Creeks members (home grown talent) in future Major Pennant teams and it has proved successful.

As seen by our success this year, we have some good quality players in the Club.”

Glenn was even more ecstatic on Sunday afternoon, after the Twin Creeks team overcame Penrith 5-2 to claim the Pennant.

“The scoreline often doesn’t reflect the full story,” said Glenn.

“We got up early and we were in control but it’s a long day and if you get too excited, it can get away from you.

We got in front, played some really solid golf and didn’t allow them (Penrith) back into it.”

“The team was playing strongly back in March-April when the season finished but after the break from Covid-19, we weren’t sure how we would come back.”

“Our boys (Twin Creeks) wound back the clock and played the form that we had at the start of the year,” said Glenn.

“We’re looking forward to Division 1 next year and I’m sure we’ll be competitive.”

Twin Creeks individual results from the Final against Penrith were: Jeremy White 4/3 over Craig Montgomery, Justin McMillan 6/4 over Chris Lawler, Tyrone Emtage 7/6 over Alex Platts, Matt Devries 4/3 over Dale Hughes, Wayne Loveridge drew with Dan Smyth, Chris McMillan drew with Wil

Arnold, John Glasheen lost 4/3 to Jeff Gadd.

Penrith GC may have been defeated in the Final but achieved the goal set for the team at the start of the season – winning promotion to Division 1.

Team captain Dale Hughes said “Just 6 years ago we were playing Division 4.”

“We were outplayed by the better team on the day but I’m really proud of the boys and how we have performed this year.”

Penrith’s squad this season was: Dale Hughes, Craig Montgomery, Chris Lawler, Jeff Gadd, Alex Platts, Wil Arnold, Daniel Smyth, Peter Morris, David Bishop, Blake Murray, Michael Organ, Blade Gadd, manager Ian Gallagher.

Twin Creeks players John Glasheen, Wayne Loveridge, Chris McMillan, Matt Devries and Justin McMillan.

Nepean News 10 December 2020 Issue 292

Win Division 2 Pennant Title

25

Nepean News 10 December 2020 Issue 292

26

local COLUMNIST

A very frenzy christmas W

ith Christmas just a few weeks away, it’s time to ensure your pets are prepared for the silly season.

Fireworks Frenzy: This time of year, it is fun to watch the colourful fireworks but to our pets it can be frightening and cause anxiety. The noise and smell can send our pets into a frenzy. Make sure your pets are safely locked away a few hours before the fireworks are due to start or book them into a reputable boarding facility for the night. Adaptil collars and antianxiety medications may help your pet. If using medication, please stay home with your pet and administer them forty five minutes before the anticipated fireworks time and create a safe den for them to snuggle down.

Microchip Update: Ensure that your pet is microchipped and registered with local council and wearing an ID collar. If your pet goes missing contact Hawkesbury Companion Animal Shelter on 0245604644.

Snakes Alive: If you are traveling anywhere between the Blue Mountains and the coastal regions, snakes and paralysis ticks are most prevalent this time of year. Both can cause severe illness and even death.

Brown snake and red-bellied black snakes are the two most common types of snakes we see in the Penrith area. With more than a dozen pets already affected by snake bites this season, it is important to be on the lookout. Symptoms from a bite may include blood in the urine, weakness,

salivation, twitching and respiratory problems.

Troublesome Ticks: To prevent paralysis ticks, start using a preventative product at least two weeks before travelling. Continue using the product throughout your stay and check your pet daily. If your pet experiences either of these nasty critters, STAY CALM and contact your vet immediately.

Too much Christmas cheer: Over eating and eating the wrong food can have grave consequences for

our pets. To enjoy the festive season avoid giving your pets the following Christmas foods • Pork products can cause severe vomiting & diarrhoea and lead to Pancreatitis • Chocolate can lead to vomiting, heart problems and seizures • Sultanas, grapes nuts and fruit cake can cause kidney disease and possible renal failure Merry Christmas: The staff at Greencross Coreen Ave will be on duty until Christmas Eve. We will be closed Christmas day and Boxing Day but open all other days. We recommend phoning the clinic on 0247313055 to arrange an appointment to minimise waiting times. Outside normal hours phone 0297588666 and make your way to Animal Referral Hospital where vets and nurse will be on duty 24/7 the entire Christmas period.

Merry Christmas to you and your family from Greencross Vets Coreen Ave.

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

Looking for adoptive parents and forever home

F

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

HAVANAH IS THE

PET OF THE WEEK

these animals to Facebook, Twitter and PetRescue. To follow them, look them up on facebook and twitter.

For any inquires related to these animals at Hawkesbury Pound, please contact them directly on (02) 4560 4644.

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Havanah is a girl that loves to be where the action is, she is very active so she will need daily exercise and and a little further training to help her settle, she will sit with a treat when asked and is a keen learner.

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Faith is a sweet girl, she is still a little shy at this stage but she is settling in with us and becoming more and more affectionate, if you would like to adopt Faith please come to the shelter to meet her.

Cost: $196.40 Age: 2 years Type: Cat Breed: DOMESTIC MEDIUM HAIR Sex: Female All prices include microchipping, lifetime council registration, desexing and 1st Vaccination.

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WANT TO FEEL LIKE A KID IN A CANDY STORE? Visit Mrs Cs CupCakes for all your Christmas baked goods this year!

Find us at Shop 3 2/6 Castlereagh St, Penrith

Or looking for that special gift this Christmas drop by Sweet Surprise 458-470 High St, Penrith

CBD this Christmas www.penrithcbdcorp.com.au/christmas-code/ for details

The Team at Nepean Solar Solutions would like to thank the local community for supporting local business and would like to wish you a Merry Christmas & Happy New Year.

To all our clients and our community We are wishing you a Merry Christmas

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ENTERTAINMENT

Nepean News 10 December 2020 Issue 292

30

5 ways to shop a little smarter this Christmas If cash flow is looking a tad grim this year, here are some ideas to up the presents under the tree, noting it’s the presence around it that really counts.

W

e don’t need to list the events of 2020 to say it’s been a big one, particularly as we approach the festive season, where many common face-to-face interactions will be limited to a phone or video call.

As we grapple with a slightly different-looking Christmas, the good news is many of us will go into it with a new-found appreciation of the presence of loved ones over the presents of the material kind.

In the meantime, if you’re looking for some tips around managing the costs of gift giving, here are some ways you could potentially shop a little smarter, so your money goes a little further.

1. Create a plan and write yourself a list While we might love the sound of ripping through wrapping paper, much of this generosity is unplanned, with nearly 75% of Aussies indicating they don’t budget for gifts1, which could lead to increased pressure on household budgets well into the new year.

2. Buy in bulk and look at cheaper alternatives Even taking advantage of a bargain pack of Christmas cards, rather than buying them individually from a newsagent, could save you quite a bit.

It also goes without saying to keep your finger on the pulse when it comes to sales. In the lead up

to Christmas, there’s Click Frenzy, Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Green Monday and Free Shipping Day, not to mention Boxing Day if you happen to be seeing someone after the 25th4.

3. Give the gift of time or skill There’s more to giving than things you can wrap – experiences matter too. Instead of another bottle of wine or a vanilla-scented candle, taking someone out for lunch, or providing a home-cooked meal, could be more up their alley.

On top of that, if you’re lucky enough to be going to someone else’s place this Christmas and you’ve got skills in cooking, decorating or manicuring

lawns, offering these services to help with the prep work may be a highly valuable commodity for those taking on the job of hosting.

4. Pitch in as a group Group giving can be a great way to reduce individual costs while harnessing the purchasing power of many to buy something that may be on the expensive side.

Other ways you could play to a group scenario this Christmas is Secret Santa. It may be an obvious one, but if in the past you’ve all bought each other a present, this provides a way for everyone to buy just one present for a member of the group, with the specifics of the arrangement up to you.

5. Regift it – nearly half of us do Admit it, you’ve probably done it.

It makes sense too. After all, why let a bottle of red go to waste if you don’t drink it, let alone unworn clothes, or a box of chocolates, particularly when you’ve now got a stash of half a dozen.

Whether we don’t like what we’ve been given, or ethically choose to reduce waste and lengthen an item’s lifespan, regifting is an increasingly acceptable approach.

Looking for further tips?

Remember, true Christmas cheer – the kind that’ll last into the new year – has rarely been accomplished on the back of riches of the financial kind. After all, the gift of time is your most precious resource. For further tips on managing your money now and in the future, check out our AMP insights, and if you’d like some free financial counselling, reach out to the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007.

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We promote the responsible service of gaming and alcohol. All our advertising and promotions are not implicitly or explicitly directed at minors, excluded persons, or vulnerable or disadvantaged groups.

ENTERTAINMENT

Nepean News 10 December 2020 Issue 292

32

In our own backyard

Fingal Spit from Tomaree Head

By BEN CRANNEY

I

’ve seen a reasonable amount of Australia, but it can be an expensive place to travel, and with so much to see, it’s easy to overlook places. Port Stephens is a good example of a place close to home whose beauty I had no idea about.

One of the best places to see this beauty is from Tomaree Head. The view of the coastline here rivals any in the world. You can spy islands humans aren’t allowed to set foot because of the Gould’s Petrel, an endangered bird that only breeds on an handful of islands, all off the Port

Stockton Beach

Stephen’s coast. To the south is Fingal Bay, which connects to Shark Island at low tide. You can walk out here to visit the heritage listed Lighthouse, used to guide ships away from what looks like the entrance to the harbour. If you’re lucky, you might also see whales from any of these spots (roughly May to October). If you’re a fan of military history, you can visit the sites where the big guns were housed for World War 2. They aren’t much to look at now, but they are well stationed, with great views, and although they were never fired, it would have been a brave ship that tried to enter the harbour.

For a different perspective of the

SUDOKU: EASY

same area, have lunch at the Inner Light Tea Rooms, near a different lighthouse on Nelson Head. Or if you’ve already eaten at Rick Stein’s restaurant at Bannisters, come for the scones. There’s also a small museum full of antiques and nautical bits and pieces, which only costs a dollar. You can also visit the working Coastal Patrol radio base.

The sand dunes at the Worimi Conservation Lands at Stockton Beach are another amazing land form. These are the longest moving sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere, and they hide all sorts of secrets. Middens, up to 12,00 years old, left by the Worimi People appear and disappear

as the dunes move. Shipwrecks sometimes pop up, or are washed ashore. Concrete pyramids now make the car park, but were another World War 2 defense. The dunes were used in Mad Max. And, as if the MadMax film crew had left behind some of its set, the last sanctioned squatters settlement in Australia is here too, built out of tin. No one is allowed to join the settlement anymore, and if any building is swallowed by the sand, it’s considered abandoned and the squatters give up all rights. Even if you don’t go looking for these secrets, it has a beautiful sunset that is perfect for enjoying while eating fish and chips.

SUDOKU: MEDIUM

INSTRUCTIONS

Fill the grid so that every column, every row & every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9 with no duplicates

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TRIVIA Wednesdays 7pm POKER Thursday 6.30pm Friday FILL THE FRIDGE RAFFLE Drawn 7pm SOCIAL DARTS Friday, rego 6.30-7.15pm RAFFLES Sunday Drawn 6.30pm Courtesy Bus Friday 5pm, Saturday midday, Sunday 4pm Temporary Trading Hours

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ENTERTAINMENT

Nepean News 10 December 2020 Issue 292

34

Morning Melodies decking the halls at The Joan

T

he ever-popular Morning Melodies concert series has made a comeback at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts

Centre!

Following months of COVID-related cancellations the Morning Melodies concert series returned in October and is now in its third month with a special Christmas concert slated for December - A Jolly Holly Christmas. Graeme Wright, Grace Rizzo and Amber Jade, with the John Keating Trio, will bring big band favourites and renditions of Pavarotti, Bocelli, Lanza and Caruso classics in the highly anticipated annual Christmas concert on Wednesday 16 December at 11am.

The October concert, The Golden Boys of Aussie Rock’n’Roll, and the November concert Showstoppers, featuring Michael Montgomery,

Leigh Archer and Beau Smith backed by the Greg Hooper Trio, delighted audiences who were thrilled to experience a live show once again. The concerts were deemed a huge success by both audience and The Joan. Audience feedback was resoundingly positive, “We had been so looking forward to it, and waiting for life to return to a new COVID-safe normal and the show more than filled the bill. Really terrific,” wrote one audience member, summing up the feelings of so many.

For over 30 years Morning Melodies has entertained a loyal community of followers who have become a vital and ongoing part of The Joan’s history. Valda Silvy OAM, Music Programmer for the Morning Melodies series, says it has been truly heart-warming to welcome this very special audience back to the Concert Hall.

All audience members with bookings and reservations are being contacted to advise them of the new safety regulations and smaller venue capacity, and those who don’t feel comfortable returning are given the opportunity for a refund, to hold their ticket cost in credit, or to donate it for future creative projects.

With the limited capacity and numerous prebookings for these concerts demand is high, as is the excitement of what is to come. It is expected that an additional block of seats for this last show will be released once the current audience requests have been received and processed. Audiences are advised to keep an eye on The Joan’s social channels and website for updates – and to stay tuned for an announcement of concerts for the first few months of 2021 very soon.

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FINANCE AND REAL ESTATE MATTERS

A

home sale during the holiday season is often considered undesirable, but as with all stories, there are silver linings. Keeping connected with a broad range of buyers will put your property in good stead to achieve a strong sales result regardless of the time of year.

One benefit of a December/January sale is the availability of buyers with increased time off during this period. While it is a busy time of year, buyers that have prioritised purchasing a home will always find time to shop. Another advantage is the volume of homes for sale often declines during this time, so the potential for buyers competing for your property may increase. Active buyers inspecting properties generally remains abundant, so keeping their needs and wants at the forefront of your marketing campaign is essential.

So how do you create connection with buyers in such a specific season? Potentially the most difficult thing for vendors to hear this time of year is the advice to forego festivities in your home. With an auction campaign, the marketing timeline is generally 4-6

Sharon Mudiman Licensee and Principal of Bespoke Realty Group has been negotiating the sale of property for over twenty-five years in the Greater Penrith Region

weeks, which may take your property through your chosen holiday and into the new year. Decorations in photos will date and distract buyers. They can make it potentially difficult for new owners to envision living in your home. By skipping the season’s specific décor, you are enabling your property to enter buyers’ imaginations to see how the space can work for them year-round. So, while it’s a disappointment, keeping embellishments in your home to a bare minimum during the holiday season will pay dividends throughout your marketing campaign.

Now that you have buyers’ needs in mind, it is also imperative your requirements are met. Ensure you have a clear understanding of your agent’s availability during this season. They too may have family plans, and it is important to discuss alternative arrangements and who will be walking you through the sales process should your agent not be available for certain dates.

Clear communication and managing expectations will remove the guesswork so you and your agent remain focused on the same goal – a healthy sales result in the holiday season.

Want to be a switched-on First Home Buyer?

With Steve Beard Select Mortgage Broker

W

ant to buy your first home with as much confidence as a seasoned professional?

Here’s a little insight into what switched on first home buyers get right.

1. UNDERSTAND THE FULL COSTS OF PURCHASING Budgeting for additional costs is important when buying a home. These include: • Loan application fee • Lenders mortgage insurance • Conveyancing and legal fees • Government stamp duty • Mortgage registration charges • Council rates.

2. HOME LOAN PRE-APPROVAL Get a home loan pre-approval before starting your property search. Not only will you know your borrowing capacity, but it could also save time down the track for your formal approval. Finance is also one of the most common reasons why a purchase

doesn’t proceed, so a pre-approval may help you gain an edge over other buyers.

3. GOVERNMENT CONCESSIONS Make sure you know what government grants and concessions are available to you. Stamp duty and transfer duty are hefty costs charged by the state government when a property changes ownership.

Depending on your property value and where you live, you could be eligible for significant discounts on this cost.

You might even pay nothing. Some states have building grants and first homeowner grants available as well.

Chat to us or check your state revenue office for more information.

4. SEEK EXPERT ADVICE AND ASK QUESTIONS Surround yourself with professionals who can provide expert advice and are happy to help. Your solicitor, accountant and mortgage broker can work together to get the right outcome for you.

Thinking about buying a home?

We’ll make sure there are no surprises and help you buy with confidence. Call us for a chat.

5. RESEARCH THE AREA The community we live in can be just as important as the house we buy. Take time to do some research about the suburbs you’re interested in so you know whether it will suit you and your family.

6. PROTECT THE PROPERTY It’s a good idea to get home insurance in place as soon as you’ve signed the purchase contract.

If anything happens during the settlement period, there’ll be no uncertainty about whether it’s covered and whose responsibility it is.

7. DO YOUR DUE DILIGENCE Find out the true state of your new home with a building and pest inspection. The building inspection will check for structural problems, electrical concerns and any required maintenance or repairs. The pest inspection will look for current or previous evidence of termites or other insects.

The above information is of a general nature and you should always get professional advice before taking any action. Please do not hesitate to contact me on 47394500, 0403 166 207 or beards@selectgrp. com.au if you what to discuss your situation or have any Home Finance questions that I can assist you with.

SELECT MORTGAGE FINANCE

Mobile: 0403 166 207 | Email: beards@selectgrp.com.au Award winning mortgage broker

Nepean News 10 December 2020 Issue 292

Ask the Expert - How to have a healthy sales result in the holiday season

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Nepean News 10 December 2020 Issue 292

42

NEPEAN HISTORY

Gold Migration

corresponding with the proportion and value of his discovery. Edward then convinced the people of Sydney that there was payable gold just outside ife was hard for most of Australia’s early Bathurst. This discovery of gold sent a shock wave settlers who struggled to find fertile land, through the colony and within a month over 300 the hot dry climate made farming difficult prospectors were in the area looking for gold that for the districts and they found that the seasons resulted in a gold rush. He then began a publicity were different from Britain with most of the plants campaign generating discussion in the region with unfamiliar to everyone but the first nation people. the naming of the part of the creek that yielded the Shepherds searching for grazing lands travelled gold as “Fitzroy Bar” after the Governor and the westwards over the Blue Mountains and moved area “Ophir” after the biblical city of gold. It was a onto land that revealed reefs of gold-bearing quartz. number of decades before John Lister and the Tom An ex-convict and shepherd named McGregor brothers received formal recognition of their part found many pieces of gold in the Wellington region in the discovery, finally being acknowledged by a and chipped parts off to take to Sydney where it was select committee of the NSW Legislative Assembly displayed in jewellery shop windows. However, in 1890. William Tom wrote an account of meeting it wasn’t until the 1840s that gold exploration Hargraves and the work the men undertook in was seriously discussed by geologists such as the prospecting for gold but Edward was feted as a hero Reverend William Branwhite Clarke, an Anglican and rewarded by the Government with £10,000 and clergyman and geologist who was Principal at the an annual pension of £250 and given the position of King’s School at Parramatta and later the Rector Commissioner of Crown Lands for the gold districts. at St Thomas’ in North Sydney. His passion was He received many valuable gifts and was the subject geology and in 1841 while exploring the Blue of many triumphant portraits. Many people were  Edward Hargreaves Mountains for fossils he examined granite slabs near courtesy of Australian Museum now leaving for the gold fields and many businesses Hartley where he discovered particles of gold. Rev. found it hard to keep operating. People began to act Clarke wrote that the country would be found abundantly rich in gold irrationally with “gold fever” spending all their savings and abandoning and continued to collect specimens. In 1844 he informed Governor their families to get to the fields. Even men from Penrith and St Marys Gipps of his finds and later claimed that the Governor directed him to went to try their luck but most came home with empty pockets. But the ”hide it or we will all have our throats cut”. The ruling elite feared smart ones saw the benefit of all those prospectors travelling the Great that a predominantly convict population striking it rich would lead to Western Road, especially in our district. Dwelling houses and grog greater crimes and result in a convict rebellion brought on by greed. shops as well as shops that sold merchandise that would be needed by Edward Hammond Hargraves after returning unsuccessfully from the the miners were making a good living by the “comings & goings” over Californian goldfields to Australia decided to travel west to Wellington the Blue Mountains to the gold fields. Ships crews deserted leaving in search of Australian gold during the summer of 1851. Edward was vessels stranded in port, shepherds left their flocks and Government born at Gosport, England, the son of Lieutenant John Edward Hargraves officials, clerks, teachers and policemen left their jobs in the excitement. and his wife Elizabeth. He was a shrewd gold promoter credited with Mining towns grew overnight, and immigrant ships brought thousands discovering the first payable goldfields near Bathurst. Visiting an inn of people keen to try their luck at the diggings. The newcomers like the at Guyong owned by the Lister family he changed his travel plans and migrants before them endured appalling conditions under unscrupulous relied upon local knowledge of the area. With the son of the innkeeper shipowners. While people migrated from all over the world during the John Lister and the Tom brothers William and James he started panning gold rush, most came from Scotland and England followed by a large for gold at Lewis Ponds Creek. He taught the young men how to make number of Chinese. In time people came to realise that gold was not a Californian cradle that he had seen on the Californian goldfields. This the bonanza they anticipated, and they began to filter back into cities wooden contraption could be rocked from side to side so that the heavy and towns looking for work and places to live. They noticed that large gold particles were retained when the lighter gravel was sifted through. areas of land were not being used and wanted the chance to establish In February 1851 they discovered 4oz of gold flecks in the Lewis Ponds farms like the squatters had done before them. With an increased Creek. His “assistants” John, William and James continued working population came further demand for land, food, clothes and buildings their cradle and found four ounces of gold further downstream from and the Australian economy grew to accommodate these needs. Another Edward’s first find, including a two-ounce nugget that William Tom impact of this large influx of migrants was that ideas of the rights of the noticed in a rock crevice. Edward purchased the nuggets and took individual, democracy and egalitarianism were imported from Europe the gold through the district, finding gold on Summer Hill Creek and and the United States. Up until the 1850s only landowners and squatters the Turon and Macquarie rivers, he then travelled to Sydney to the had the right to vote. People began to demand one vote for one man and Colonial Secretary of the colony Mr E Deas Thomson announcing soon women demanded the right to vote. that it was he who had discovered payable gold in the district and his Sources: Migrationheritage.nsw.gov.au, Sydney Mail & NSW Advertiser, reward for finding gold. It was agreed that Edward should be rewarded, State Library of NSW, Australian Dictionary of Biography, Trove.

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

L

Michelle Latham

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was the Softball Program Manager Jo Beach who was named the Elite Travel Community Citizen of the Year.

Jo has been with the Academy since 2015 and continually gives up her own time for the benefit of our athletes. She is a fantastic leader, encourages all and supports their athletes to achieve excellence at every level of competition.

This award has been made possible as a result of the support offered by Elite Travel who have kindly sponsored the prize of a domestic getaway for two including flights and accommodation on the Gold Coast!

hroughout 2020 the Western Sydney Academy of Sport, in collaboration with our business partner Elite Travel, has been taking nominations for the Community Citizen of the Year award. The award recognises the contribution, or special act of volunteers, athletes, and other individuals within the Academy family.

They have recognised a number of outstanding nominations this year including Digital Realty Netball Head Coach Heather Smith, Softball Head Coach Richard Gatt, Netball Umpire Makayla Hickson and Netball Manager Nikki Welsford however it

Nepean News 10 December 2020 Issue 292

Academy announces Elite Travel Community Citizen of the Year

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Wanderers to open season with historic double header

W

estern Sydney Wanderers FC will open the season on Sunday 27 December with a historic A-League and Westfield W-League double header.

The match will mark the first time that the season has opened with a double header with the two competitions joining forces at the home of the Wanderers, Bankwest Stadium.

The Wanderers Westfield W-League team will open the season with a blockbuster match against Melbourne Victory.

The opening match will be an opportunity for Wanderers members and fans to catch new recruits Margaux Chauvet and Libby Copus-Brown alongside returning talents including Georgia Yeoman-Dale, Leena Khamis and Wanderers Player of the Year Courtney Nevin.

The Red & Black’s A-League side will take to the field at 6:30pm to line up against newcomers Macarthur Rams.

Carl Robinson is set to coach in his first competitive fixture for the club with the clash against the Rams in another historic moment for football.

Internationals including Nicolai Muller, Graham Dorrans and Simon Cox are set to star in the opening round as well as young Australian talents Keanu Baccus, Tate Russell and Tass Mourdoukoutas.

Western Sydney Wanderers CEO John Tsatsimas said he was proud that

the club was hosting such a historic fixture.

“We are very excited to host the very first double header to open the Westfield W-League and A-League 2020/21 seasons,” said Tsatsimas., “Personally I am looking forward to our members, partners and fans

returning to Wanderland in what has been a challenging year.

“We are one club here at the Wanderers and the double header is a fantastic opportunity for us to showcase what the teams have been working on during the pre-season and we can’t wait to get back in action.”

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SPORT

Tex’s tales with Dale ‘Tex’ Walker

Patrician Brothers Blacktown were too good for Westfield Sports High in the NRL Schoolboy Cup. (Photo courtesy of the Daily Telegraph) Patrician Brothers College Blacktown scored their seventh Grand Final win in their last nine attempts when they took out the shortened version of the National Schoolboy Cup last month.

Ten players from that 21 man squad are contracted to the Penrith Panthers and from all reports there are some future stars of the NRL amongst them.

General Manager of Football and former first team coach Greg Beacroft is as proud as they come when it comes to St Pats, Greg went to school at Patties before finishing his education at the now defunct John Paul II Senior High.

He too was an outstanding lock forward during his school days playing regularly in the Commonwealth Bank Cup, as it was known back in the 80’s.

“I’ve been fortunate to see some fine athletes come through the Patrician Brothers system and we are extremely proud of what we have achieved,” said Beacroft.

Beacroft is also the Tour Coordinator taking future students through the school grounds and showing what Patrician Brothers has to offer with their senior schooling.

“It’s a six year journey and first and foremost we guarantee the opportunity to have a good education,” he said.

“In addition to that they have the opportunity to follow their sporting dreams. A young man who is brilliant at age 13 or 14 doesn’t necessarily mean he will succeed, a lot of it also

comes down to personal development.

“Everyone has the opportunity, we field four Rugby League teams in the under 13’s and the under 14’s to help with their progression.”

And for Beacfroft, watching the NRL is as exciting and satisfying as it gets. He’s had a say in many of the players careers and still keeps in touch.

“For our recent Grand Final we asked many of the old boys if they can send a video of encouragement so we could play to the team the morning of the game,” he said.

And these old “Patties” boys didn’t let the team down.

Messages of support came from Matt Moylan, Tyrone May, Stephen Crichton, Jarome Luai, Dallin Watene - Zelezniak, Josh Aloai, and many more.

“The boys were so pumped after they watched these messages, nothing was going to stop them on grand final day, and it didn’t,” said Beacroft.

Of the 21 member playing squad Patrician Brothers Blacktown fielded this year they will lose 17 of those heading into 2021.

“It’s not uncommon to lose that amount of players, and the good thing is we have our pathways to groom to the next group,” said Beacroft.

For the record Patrician Brothers Blacktown centre Sunia Turuva scored the match-sealing try to give his side a 22-16 win over Westfields Sports High in this year’s grand final.

PATIOMAN

Remember the name Isaiah Katoa, he is destined for stardom. And, the hawks are circling.

Kataoa was instrumental in the success for St Pat’s Blacktown this season. At age 16 he was a clear standout against players two years his senior.

Katoa was the captain of Penrith’s Harold Matthews team and although he is still contracted to the Panthers the Rugby Union scouts have a close eye on him.

Katoa completes year 11 this week and has been offered a lucrative scholarship by Barker College Hornsby which will see him repeat year 11 next year to secure a two year deal.

“He’s something very special,” said Greg Beacroft.

“Whilst it’s sad to see him go, I also understand why the offer has come his way as he has professionalism written all over him.”

Katoa is not just your normal footballer reliant on his ability just to get him through.

“He’s one fo the smartest I’ve seen,” said Beacroft.

“He has a notebook with all his strategies for upcoming games. Isaiah will sit down and conduct one on one’s with key teammates and run through plays and expectations. He’s always at school early doing extras in the gym.

“I haven’t seen a more professional athlete at that age, he has all the ingredients to be one of the greats.”

Katoa is the younger brother of former Panther Sione and plays a variety of positions.

Normally a five eighth Katoa took the role of hooker in the grand final having to fill the void due to injury.

“He was outstanding in the semi final and grand final, he can play any position,” said Beacroft.

“I know the Panthers are keen to keep him and I’d be tying him up as soon as possible as I believe he will be the perfect player to take up Api Korasioau’s position when he retires or moves on down the track.”

Katoa played junior reps (Under 14’s and Under 15’s) for the NSW Waratahs and with Barker College now taking up his time for the next two seasons, there’s no doubt he will be in hot demand for his next contract.

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with Dale ‘Tex’ Walker

Brock Jarvis is in action tomorrow night at the National Convention Centre in Canberra.

Speaking of future stars, Brock Jarvis heads to the ring tomorrow night for his highly anticipated fight with Melbourne’s Mark Schleibs at the National Convention Centre in Canberra. The bout was initially scheduled for November, but has been pushed back to December 11.

And there’s no better person than Jeff Fenech to have by your side.

“I was 16 when Dad took me over to meet an Australian boxing legend,” said Jarvis.

“Jeff Fenech has been close with my family for a long time. My uncle, Pat, was a Police Officer around where Jeff trained and helped him get into the local police club, and my grandmother was his dietician and nutritionist when he was fighting.”

Growing up Jarvis played Rugby League and had his sights set on a career in the 13 man game, but his body never developed the way many top flight players are today.

And unlike many of his peers, he is one of the most level headed youngsters in the game.

“Talking yourself up and having a big ego is in fashion at the moment, but it’s just not me. If that’s how someone is, that’s how they are. But you can’t go around pretending to be someone you’re not.

“I’ve got some good people around me and they all keep me level headed. All I care about is continuing to show up every day and keep doing my thing.”

Jarvis also has the backing of former Panther and successful businessman Lou Zivanovic with Luxury Property Development brand in CABE.

The Sydney Thunder begin their Big Bash campaign against the well fancied Melbourne Stars this Saturday night.

The Thunder will have to be at their very best with the Stars fielding such quality players as Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Will Pucovski and Adam Zampa.

The Pride of Sydney’s west will look towards Jason Sangha, Usman Khawaja and Callum Head Coach Shane Bond is a big part of the reason Ben Ferguson in the run Cutting signed with the Sydney Thunder. department, whilst Daniel Sams and Englishmen Chris Tremain Heat alongside Daniel Vettori. He was will spearhead the bowling attack with a also my bowling coach in the IPL at the Mumbai Indians and knows how to get little help from Ben Cutting.

Ben Cutting joins the squad from the the best out of me.”

Cutting is the Heat’s highest wicket Brisbane Heat and can influence any game taker with 63 scalps and is their second with both bat and ball.

“Shane Bond was a very big factor for my highest run scorer at a strike rate of 145.

He will be a perfect fit in the middle order move,” said Cutting.

“Bondy was my bowling coach at the for his new team.

Rugby League is alive and well in the United States.

With no action on the field due to Covid the first game of 2020 was played last weekend.

The Sacramento Immortals defeated the East Palo Alto Razorbacks 38-30.

“This whole year has been frustrating with a number of false starts, said Californian Rugby League’s Tom Stevenson.

“Players from Los Angeles, San Francisco and Sacramento are all in training and we are now looking to stage three or four games on January 30.”

I’ve had a lot of fun reporting for Nepean News and with this being my final column for the year I want to wish each and every one of you fun, frivolity, love and kindness for the upcoming holiday season.

2020 has been very challenging and I sincerely hope you have made it through as best you can. Life’s not about having the fanciest car, big boat, big house and money, it’s about you as a person and the people around you. I recently said farewell to a close friend who passed away from cancer at age 48. It’s not fair, but you soon realise we aren’t on this earth for very long. What I’m saying is, do your best, have a crack and look at the glass being half full.

Have a great Xmas everyone and I’ll be back late February bringing you a bit of news and banter along the way for 2021.

Nepean News 10 3 September December 2020 2020 Issue Issue 285 292

Tex’s tales

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Nepean News 10 December 2020 Issue 292

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Physie continues to be local favourite

By KeRRIE DAVIES

P

h y s i c a l Culture has been popular in Australia for more than 127 years with its unique blend of dance and exercise.

Through two World Wars, the Great Depression and other times of crisis, Physie has always found a way to keep going. The COVID pandemic was no exception. BJP Physie girls and women can’t be stopped!

2020 saw Nepean Physie and its members face many struggles but they finished the year off with huge smiles.

The Nepean Open over 33 Ladies team won the Overall State Cup in the Championship division at the NSW State Team event in November.

Ashleigh Hampson, Lauren Perry and Mia Fahy were all awarded NSW State Champions in their respective age groups.

The Nepean club had their best result yet: 11 State Placegetters 21 State Finalists 9 State Competitors “After such a difficult year of learning routines on zoom and attending outdoor classes it was such an amazing achievement simply to even to be able to hold and attend competitions!” said teacher Kim Annesley.

For more information about the Nepean Physie club call Kim on 0401 587 262 or email kim@ physicalculture.com.au

Mia Fahy – 11 years NSW State Champion

PENRITH PANTHERS

mark with MARK GEYER

The necessary evil of NRL, pre season training!

T

he only time I didn’t like being a professional Rugby League player!

Rugby League has given me everything in my life, I owe the game a lot.

But there is one time in particular that being a full time Rugby League player isn’t pleasant at all. And no matter how fit or unfit you are, the time when you go back to training, which is normally around early November, to when you break just before Christmas, is by far the hardest time of one’s career.

That 6-7 week period of fitness is anything but fun.

You get your arse handed to you by your trainers who seem to take glee in pushing your boundaries to a near state of disrepair!

As I hear different footy teams heading back to the ovals, sand dunes, or army type camps, I shiver.

In my very first year of footy with the Panthers I was a wide eyed 17 year old who didn’t see what lay ahead for me on a nightly basis. I wasn’t quite aware what it took to become a first grade rugby league player.

I quickly found out.

Every second night our squad of 50 players made up of first grade, reserve grade, and under 23’s players, would jog from Penrith stadium across to Jamison Park, where a torture session would await.

Ronnie Oxley and his sidekick Dennis Bailey would be awaiting the squad with a Cheshire Cat smile on both of their faces knowing exactly where and how far they were going to push our resistance.

“Ok boys”, bellowed Ronnie. “Tonight’s program is” as we all started to sweat more with nervousness and dreaded anticipation.

“We’ll warm up, then we have, 6 x 800 m runs.

Followed by 8 x 400 m runs. 12 x 200 m runs, then to finish we have a 2.5km time trial, where the forwards have to break 10 minutes and the backs have to come in under 9 minutes 30 seconds!”

A 2.5km time trial AFTER 10k’s of sprints!!

You could almost see every player’s thoughts go to ‘crap, what niggling injury have I got?”

But by the time that thought was gathering

 The necessary evil of NRL, pre season training!

momentum, BANG! We were off. Two hours of solid running. Which we’d do 3 times per week for 7 weeks. It was brutal. But it’s what it takes to be a professional rugby league player in the toughest competition in the world.

I’d never change one thing about my rugby league career, as I feel even the dramas I encountered made me grow. But, I must confess as you near the end of your career and you’re tossing up about possibly going one more season, you are quickly slapped in the face with an inner thought rationale saying “are

you for real? You want to do another pre-season?”

So as our footy players start back on their journeys for season 2021 know this, that it’s anything but fun undertaking a full off-season of NRL pre season training. But, you also know all to well as a player that without it, you are next to no chance of ever fulfilling a dream of playing first grade in the toughest competition of them all!

Bring on 2021, and I’ll see you at the game.

MG (random Westie) OAM

Nepean News 10 December 2020 Issue 292

on the

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