Nepean News 11 February 2022 DIGITAL

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ISSUE 322OWDIG

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Rallying behind Royce The local community is rallying behind footy legend Royce Simmons following the announcement that he has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.

Full story by Noel Rowsell inside.

MEMBERS VOLUNTEERS WANTED OPEN WEDNESDAYS & SATURDAYS 10AM-2PM The St Marys & District Historical Society will be opening up for 2022 on Wednesday 2nd February and will continue to open on our usual 10am to 2pm on Wednesday’s and Saturdays.

We would love to have new members as the current membership is low due to effects of Covid and the lockdowns.

So please, if you are interested on the history of St Marys and the surrounding areas and would love to volunteer, take the time to come and see us at our “Chambers” Headquarters on Mamre Road at the Corner Precinct that was once the St Marys Municipal Council Chambers and later the library and baby health centre then later became the cultural centre before the Historical Society took over.

Find out just how historical St Marys-South Creek was, enough that the elite of the early dignitaries wanted grants of land here.

Any questions please phone our President Lyn Forde on 8840 8771 and leave a message if there is no answer.

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ominations are now open for the 2022 Local Celebration Awards – the award program that recognises people of all ages who go above and beyond, volunteer their time to make Penrith a great place to live, or work tirelessly for the benefit of others and the community.

Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen said that after several difficult years which have presented unprecedented challenges, there’s never been a better time to shine a light on the dedicated, selfless and inspirational people who are making a difference in Penrith.

“In 2021, we were overwhelmed by the outstanding calibre of entries for the inaugural Local Celebration Awards – so much so that the judges awarded multiple winners for several of the categories,” Cr Hitchen said.

“As a result, we had seven winners rather than four and I congratulate them heartily: Kristine Gauci, Daena Madon, Cathy and Marzi DeSanti, Gloria Lenon, Robert Rayner, Michael Allen, and Veronica Nou,” she said.

“I encourage residents and our wider community to put forward a nomination for the 2022 Local Celebration Awards – this is your chance to shine a light on the heroes who make us all proud to be part of this city.”

Nominations for the 2022 Local Celebration

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Awards are open until 29 April 2022, and submissions will be accepted over the counter, online, by mail and by video.

There are four award categories to choose from: • Citizen of the Year (over 18yrs old) • Young Citizen of the Year (aged under 17yrs old) • Mayor’s Local Heroes Award (all ages) • Making a Difference – Community Service Award (all ages).

The award recipients will be announced at Council’s Ordinary Meeting in July 2022.

Following the announcement in July, the Local Celebration Award winners will be formally recognised at a Civic Reception event held in August 2022.

Find out more about the award program, the selection criteria, and how to nominate at: penrith.city/local-celebration-awards

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Nepean News 11 February 2022 Issue 322OWDIG

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95B Station St, Penrith Editor: Sales Manager: Sales: Sales: Journalist: Journalist: Sports Editor: Photographer: Graphic Design: Printer: Letters to the Editor: Web:

Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644 Korena Hale 0403 045 880 Larry Davis 0432 062 643 Malama Psarianos 0416 203 777 Noel Rowsell 0424 007 202 Greg Yanda 0425 232 043 Dale “Tex” Walker 0411 627 113 Kennedi Geyer 0452 455 844 Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893 Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown nepeannews@aol.com issuu.com/nepeannews

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Design competition launched for Winter Sports World

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s the Beijing Winter Olympics yields gold for Australia, three of the nation’s architects are vying for the right to design Australia’s first indoor snow resort and alpine attraction (and possibly its future elite training ground).

One small, one medium and one large architectural firm have been invited to enter a design competition for Winter Sports World, to be built on the banks of the Nepean River at Penrith, New South Wales, just 9km from the new international airport at Badgerys Creek.

Winter Sports World site owner and developer Peter Magnisalis has been working with the NSW Government architect and Penrith City Council on a design brief since October.

The winner will be announced at the end of March.

Mr Magnisalis said he wanted to work with Australian architects: ``We know the talent is here and they know the climate and the landscape.

“I’m excited to see what each comes back with. There’s a large company that is used to designing award-winning projects, a medium sized one that is renowned for thinking outside the box and a small one which is nimble and isn’t afraid to go off piste.’’

The three competitors were selected after thorough research narrowed the shortlist to seven architects. Mr Magnisalis interviewed each, after which he invited them to submit an expression of interest. Six responded (the seventh was not available in the time required).

Each EOI was then evaluated, with the top scoring three invited to submit a design to the competition.

The design competition follows the amendment by NSW Planning Department of the Local Environmental Plan for the Winter Sports World site on December 16.

Since Penrith Council endorsed the proposal in May, several revisions to the proposal have included taking better advantage of latest green technology such as incorporating renewable and recycled materials, and thermal and energy efficiency methods in the design and running of the attraction, electric car charging points and an underground carpark.

Other modifications include amending the shape and size of the development so that all neighbours receive winter sun; revising the number of hotel rooms to 162; and removing the revolving restaurant to make way for the height required for the advanced

ski run, although fine dining remains along with casual food options.

Mr Magnisalis is currently negotiating with internationally respected hotel management companies and restauranteurs.

Using real snow, the $300 million development will include: • A 300m advanced run for experienced athletes and a dedicated learn to ski run • Olympic sized ice rink • Competition venue for figure, ice hockey, speed skating and alpine skiing • Ice climbing for mountaineer training • 4.5-star 162-room hotel • Restaurant and cafes with snow views Currently a 2.35ha horse paddock located within the vibrant Riverlink Tourism Precinct at Penrith, the site will also include a Winter Wonderland snow play area, conference and function rooms.

Winter Sports World is expected to generate 900 new ongoing tourism jobs after construction and inject $80 million a year into the local economy with 250,000 visitors annually.

The attraction will also attract international elite snow and ice athletes and provide a training venue for nine Olympic sports (alpine skiing, freestyle skiing, snow board, figure skating, ice hockey, speed skating, curling with the possibility of also catering for cross country and biathlon).

“I don’t think it’s a big stretch of the imagination to think that Winter Olympic stars of the future will be training at Winter Sports World,’’ Mr Magnisalis said.

However, the development will be accessible and affordable to all with learn-to-ski classes, school and community group excursions and casual visits by locals encouraged.

The carbon-neutral design of the development by renowned eco-friendly architecture practice Environa Studio would set new environmental building benchmarks with features such as most advanced technology for capturing and reuse of free heat, roof solar system for electrical energy needs, insulation systems, non-toxic cooling and roof water harvesting for snow making.

A state significant development application is expected to be lodged with NSW Department of Planning Industry and Environment by midyear.

Construction will hopefully commence next year, with Winter Sports World expected to open in 2025.

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ntelligent technology has helped slash the number of accidents, shorten travel times and improve efficiency along the M4 from Penrith to Parramatta a year after being permanently switched on.

Minister for Metropolitan Roads Natalie Ward said the NSW Government’s $600 million investment in the state’s first fully operated smart motorway has delivered impressive safety results along with faster, more efficient journeys.

“In December 2020 we officially flicked the switch and we’re thrilled with the results so far. In the 12 months since, the total number of accidents has dropped 40 per cent and travel times are down 20 per cent on pre-upgrade figures from 2016,” Mrs Ward said.

“There’s also been a jump of around 10 per cent in usage in recent years, with up to 35 thousand additional daily trips, as more people recognise the time saving benefits.”

Minister for Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said this crucial stretch between Penrith and Parramatta featured an automated and responsive operating system.

“This means more than 1,300 road sensors located every 500 metres and on ramps with CCTV work together in real time to prompt operator control of variable message signs, variable speed signs, lane control signs and ramp signals,” Mr Ayres said.

“The sensors detect congestion and automatically lowers the speed limit on the variable signs. They also activate the entry ramps’ traffic lights to optimise traffic flow.”

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Member for Mulgoa Tanya Davies said that real time information feeding back to the Transport Management Centre identifies incidents as they happen.

“We are resolving incidents 20 per cent faster and relaying live traffic information to motorists through signs and third-party map services before they get stuck in a jam, making trips smoother and faster,” Mrs Davies said.

Transport for NSW is in the planning stages for future smart motorway projects, including the Western Distributor from the ANZAC Bridge to the Warringah Freeway.

For more information, see M4 Smart Motorway project.

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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M4 smart motorway slashes crash stats

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Trainees jump start their careers in health

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boriginal and Torres Strait Islander people can now kick-start a career in health with new education opportunities putting them on the path to full-time employment.

Traineeships are now open for people looking for a rewarding and diverse career in health care at Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District.

Offering on-the-job training at our hospitals and health facilities, successful applicants will receive a Certificate III qualification in Allied Health Assistance, Health Administration, Health Services Assistance or Health Support Services.

As a trainee you will work across a variety of clinical settings and will be supported by our expert health care team gaining invaluable experience from hands on learning.

Some of the duties trainees perform include the provision of clinical care in accordance with a nursing

care plan, monitoring and recording a patient’s health condition, and customer service delivery.

Renee Wall, a Public Health Support Officer currently assisting the District’s COVID response says traineeships offer endless opportunities to learn new experiences.

“Coming out of high school I felt kind of stuck. I’d always been interested in a career in health but wasn’t sure exactly what area to focus on or how I go about entering the profession,” says Renee.

“I learnt about the traineeships on offer at the District from a close friend and I’m so glad I took that leap and

applied. The traineeships not only get you in the door but provide a huge amount of opportunity.”

“The staff were amazing and helped me every step along the way. They offered study sessions and catchup classes if I was unavailable and always looked after my wellbeing,” says Renee.

If anyone is considering undertaking a traineeship, Renee encourages them to apply.

“Each day is different. I’m learning new things all the time and I’m very fortunate to work in such a large organisation where new opportunities present themselves frequently.

I’ve worked across four different departments and that’s helped me land where I am today.”

Interested in applying? For more information about the traineeships including application forms click here.

Applications close 28 February 2022.

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mpowering women and improving their economic opportunities will be the focus of the NSW Government’s landmark Women’s Economic Opportunities Review and Expert Reference Panel.

Premier Dominic Perrottet said the Review will focus on supporting women to enter, re-enter and stay in the workforce, including through identifying opportunities to reduce salary and superannuation discrepancy and improve access to and affordability of childcare.

“The time has come to level the playing field, making sure more women have more choice and opportunities when it comes to their careers,” Mr Perrottet said.

“We know there is more work to do to improve conditions for more women to succeed in the workplace and have greater choice in their lives.

This Review will help find ways to increase women’s leadership opportunities and enable flexibility for working parents.”

Treasurer Matt Kean said the 2021-22 NSW Intergenerational Report found the economy would be eight per cent larger by 2060-61 if women’s participation reached parity with men.

“Women are underrepresented in our trades, our offices and our boardrooms, and for the State to be more productive we need everyone who wants to work to be able to do so,” Mr Kean said.

“I want to make sure a girl born today has the same opportunities as a boy born in the hospital room next door, which has not been the case for their mothers and grandmothers before them.”

Minister for Women Bronnie Taylor said the NSW Government is committed to creating a more even gender mix across industries, supporting female entrepreneurs to run their own businesses and increasing workplace flexibility.

“Too often women leave the workforce or reduce their working hours out of necessity, not choice. It is therefore no surprise that women have only two thirds of the superannuation saved compared to men,” Mrs Taylor said.

“If we increase the number of women in the workforce we will improve their economic security and wellbeing across a lifetime, bringing enormous social and economic benefits to everyone in NSW.” Minister for Education and Early Learning Sarah Mitchell said the Review will develop

recommendations to improve quality, accessibility and affordability of childcare and early childhood education for families.

“The Review will provide key insights into the childcare needs of working parents, which will contribute to the broader early learning reform work that I am undertaking, designed to create greater educational outcomes for our littlest learners.”

The Review will be conducted by the NSW Government and supported by an Expert Reference Panel. Sam Mostyn AO, President of Chief Executive Women will chair the panel. The other members are: - Maha Abdo OAM, CEO Muslim Women Association; - Blair Comley PSM, Partner EY Port Jackson Partners; - Jillian Kilby, CEO and Founder of The Infrastructure Collaborative and The Exchange; - Leslie Loble, Co-Chair of the Council on Early Childhood Development; and - Daisy Turnbull, writer and teacher.

In addition to the Expert Reference Panel, the Review will be informed by strong external consultation including with the NSW Council for Women’s Economic Opportunity.

Women’s participation in the workforce continues to increase but remains lower than men.

In November 2021, ABS data showed the average participation rate of men in NSW was 70 per cent and for women it was 61 per cent.

For more information and to read the terms of reference, visit: www.treasury.nsw.gov.au/ women-opportunities-review

Nepean News 11 February 2022 Issue 322OWDIG

Review to boost women in the workforce

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local news

State-wide advertising ramps up to boost vaccination rates

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he NSW Government’s ‘Let’s Do This’ advertising campaign is expanding to encourage everyone 16 years and older to get their COVID-19 booster shot.

Premier Dominic Perrottet said the updated campaign will reinforce the importance of getting a COVID-19 booster to reduce the risk of severe illness and to help protect communities.

“This campaign celebrates the resilience and strength of the NSW community and encourages everyone aged 16 years and older to get their booster shot three months after their second dose,” Mr Perrottet said.

“NSW has one of highest vaccination rates in the world, but ensuring everyone gets their booster is key to strengthening our protection against variants like Omicron, keeping people safe and enjoying more of the things we love.

“It’s never been easier to get a COVID-19 vaccine. So go out, get that third shot as soon as you’re eligible and protect yourself, your family and your friends.”

Health Minister Brad Hazzard reminded people of the importance of a booster, regardless of whether they’ve had the virus.

“The fact that you’ve had COVID-19 doesn’t necessarily mean you can can’t get it again and the next time you may end up in ICU or worse,” Mr Hazzard said.

“To be fully vaccinated and have the best protection possible go and get the booster four to six weeks after recovering from the virus.”

The multi-channel advertising campaign will run in addition to existing COVID safety campaigns, starting from 6 February across print, television, radio, outdoor, digital and social media.

Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Victor Dominello said that like the original ‘Let’s Do This’ campaign released in August, this new ad hopes to capture what NSW has been working towards and the importance vaccinations play in getting there.

“It’s been a tough two years but we can’t lose sight of what we’re all aiming for, which is to get everyday life back to as close as normal as possible,” Mr Dominello said.

“When you’re eligible, that is the time to get your booster to protect yourself, your family, your colleagues and your community.”

It will include ads in 19 languages including Arabic, Assyrian, Bengali, Cantonese, Dari, Dinka, Farsi, Greek, Hindi, Italian, Khmer, Korean, Kurdish, Mandarin, Nepali, Punjabi, Spanish, Thai and Vietnamese.

Minister for Multiculturalism Mark Coure said everyone needs to be able to understand how to help keep themselves, their families and their friends safe, no matter their language or cultural background.

“We know that many people across New South Wales rely on translated

materials to understand important information. This campaign will go a long way towards supporting them and the multicultural community groups providing these services,” Mr Coure said.

The campaign will also include specific advertising for the Aboriginal community that will appear in the Koori Mail, on radio, social media, digital display and video.

Anyone aged five and older can get vaccinated, and booster appointments are available to everyone aged 16 and older. They are available at pharmacies, GPs, Aboriginal Medical Services, and more than 40 NSW Health clinics, as well as outreach and pop-up clinics open across the State.

Anyone with questions about COVID-19 vaccinations should speak to their GP or a pharmacist.

Vaccinations can be booked by visiting nsw.gov.au or calling the COVID-19 helpline on 1800 020 080 for assistance.

Customers who need a free telephone interpreter can call 131 450, advise the language they need and ask the interpreter to connect them to the COVID-19 vaccine helpline.

To make a COVID-19 vaccination booking go to www.nsw.gov.au

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bout one million families can now enjoy $250 worth of vouchers, thanks to the NSW Government’s Parents NSW program having gone live on Monday.

Eligible families will receive five $50 vouchers which can be redeemed at Discover NSW and Stay NSW registered businesses.

Premier Dominic Perrottet said this program was a big win for households and would help ease the cost of living for busy parents.

“This is all about thanking parents for their home schooling efforts last year, helping make ends meet and supporting local businesses. Parents have persevered and balanced a variety of challenges as a result of home learning, and we are grateful for their hard work and sacrifices,” Mr Perrottet said.

“This will also put downward pressure on the cost of living by helping families across the State get out and enjoy the best our State has to offer while leaving them with more money in their back-pocket to spend on the everyday essentials.”

In addition, the Stay NSW voucher program, providing every adult aged 18 and older with a $50 voucher to spend at registered accommodation providers, will be progressively rolled

out from 21 February. Both programs will be implemented using the existing Dine & Discover NSW infrastructure.

“These vouchers are a double win – they encourage families to get out and enjoy the best of our State, while also providing much needed income to businesses affected by the pandemic,” Mr Perrottet said.

Treasurer Matt Kean said the vouchers form part of the NSW Government’s $2.8 billion COVID-19 Economic Recovery Strategy announced in October and come on the back of the more the $1 billion

COVID business support package recently announced.

“These vouchers are a win-win for industry and families and encourage more families to explore our incredible State and bolster local economies,” Mr Kean said.

“We’ve stood shoulder to shoulder with industry throughout the pandemic and this is another program that will help keep businesses open and keep workers in jobs.”

Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Victor Dominello said households would be able to

apply for both programs via Service NSW. “Applying is easy and can be done quickly via your Service NSW app, the Service NSW website or by calling 13 77 88 for assistance,” Mr Dominello said.

“It only takes a few seconds to scan the vouchers and reap the rewards.

We’ve made the process as simple as possible so families can enjoy a much earned holiday or a visit to a discover venue.”

Parents NSW vouchers can be combined up to the value of $250 and applied to your accommodation bill or discover experience. Customers can pool multiple Stay NSW vouchers with friends or family for the same booking at registered accommodation providers, big or small.

Bookings made through third party providers such as online booking platforms and travel agents are not included in the program.

Participating businesses will be able to redeem vouchers seven days a week, including public holidays. Customers will be able to search for participating accommodation providers on the easy-to-use hotel finder.

For more information, visit https:// www.service.nsw.gov.au/parentsnsw-vouchers

Nepean News 11 February 2022 Issue 322OWDIG

Thanking parents for their home schooling efforts

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Invitation from the

Zonta Club of Nepean Valley Tuesday 1st March 2022 Occasion: International Women’s Day dinner Guest Speaker: Malama Psarianos Place: Penrith Panthers Time: 6.30pm for 7pm Cost: $32 for a 2 course meal with tea/coffee RSVP: to rachelswong@hotmail.com by the 24th February Malama Psarianos JP is a popular local Radio Presenter on Penrith community radio station WOWFM 100.7.

She hosts Out ‘N’ About in Nepean News and is a Clean-up Australia Advocate. Malama comes from a Greek Family - her parents are from Lemnos Island. Malama will share her timeline with us which takes us to China, Europe, Canberra, Parramatta and Western Sydney.

www.westcare.org.au

Nepean News 11 February 2022 Issue 322OWDIG

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local news

Bushwalkers reminded to be prepared

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he NSW Police Force is reminding outdoor enthusiasts to be prepared before heading into the bush after a series of recent rescues involving injured or lost hikers and canyoners over summer.

So far this year, police have rescued 22 hikers across the state after they became lost or injured in bushland and national parks.

Blue Mountains Police Rescue Team Leader, Sergeant Dallas Atkinson, said summer has been a busy period for police as more people head outdoors for recreation, including bushwalking and canyoning.

“National parks and bushland are natural, unpredictable environments, and the reality is that often people will get lost despite their best efforts,” Sgt Atkinson said.

“We don’t want outdoor adventures to end in tragedy, so we’re encouraging people to be prepared and ‘Think Before You Trek’.

“It takes only a few simple steps to ensure you are prepared for the bush, and it can make the difference between life and death,” Sgt Atkinson said.

The Think Before You Trek bush safety campaign encourages people heading into the bush and national parks to be prepared, with these simple steps: • Take enough water, food and first aid supplies • Register your trip on the National Parks and Wildlife Service website (trip intention form) • Keep to a planned route • Install the Emergency Plus application and take a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), or satellite communication device, to use as a last resort A PLB helped save two lost and dehydrated bushwalkers who activated the device as a last resort in the Blue Mountains last month.

PolAir 2 and Police Rescue commenced a search for the pair after they activated the PLB about 5pm on Sunday 2 January 2022 from near Mount Hay. A short time later, the bushwalkers – a 41-year-old woman and 42-year-

old man – were located by the crew of Pol Air 2, some distance from a walking track near Boorong Crags and severely dehydrated. As it was getting dark, the crew decided to winch the bushwalkers to safety.

The trekkers were then flown to Mount Hay car park, where they were assessed by NSW Ambulance paramedics for dehydration.

Sergeant Atkinson said the rescue serves as a reminder of the importance of being prepared.

“This was a situation that could have ended very differently had they not had a PLB, given their level of dehydration and time of day,” Sgt Atkinson said.

“If you’re prepared, emergency services will be able to locate and rescue you. It’s always a good day for police when we can bring people safely home to their loved ones.”

Other recent incidents of note include: • Police received a notification from a GPS tracking device about

two lost canyoners at Butterbox Point, Blue Mountains, about 6.10pm on Tuesday 11 January 2022. PolAir and Police Rescue conducted a search for the canyoners, locating the pair soon after. The men – aged 28 and 30 – were exhausted, and with night approaching the crew of PolAir winched them to safety. They were flown to a carpark at Mount Hay and assessed by paramedics, however they were uninjured.

• About 6pm on Thursday 17 February 2022, police received reports a 59-year-old woman had broken her leg while canyoning with three others at Butterbox Canyon. A NSW Ambulance helicopter winched the woman to safety, and she was flown to hospital in a stable condition.

Police Rescue and NSW Ambulance paramedics hiked into the area and located the remaining three people, a woman and man aged in their 50s and a 15-year-old girl. They were uninjured. The rescue party stayed with the group overnight, before

everyone was flown out the following day.

• About 9pm on Monday 3 January 2022, emergency services were called after two women – aged 27 and 24 – and two teenage girls – both aged 16 – became lost while bushwalking at Clover Hill Trail, Macquarie Pass, with only a small amount of food and water in their possession. Police asked the younger woman to install the Emergency Plus application on her phone to provide coordinates for their location. Police Rescue, with assistance from Lake Illawarra Police District, and NSW State Emergency Service (SES), conducted a search for the group, locating them just before 11pm between Clover Falls and Mulagong Falls. They were assessed

by NSW Ambulance paramedics but were uninjured.

• Two bushwalkers contacted police after becoming lost and running out of water near the Wollangambe River at Mount Wilson about 7pm on Friday 31 December 2021. The pair – a 28-year-old woman and a 30-yearold man – provided their coordinates and PolAir 4 was able to locate them atop a ridge. PolAir landed nearby and the pair were brought onboard the aircraft before being flown to a landing site near Mount Wilson Rural Fire Service. They were uninjured.

• About 3pm on Saturday 1 January 2022, a 52-year-old man was walking along a coastal track in the Royal National Park when he fainted and twisted his ankle at Burning Palms Beach. Lifeguards responded and contacted emergency services.

The man was assessed by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being transported by PolAir to the Burning Palms carpark. He was further assessed by paramedics for minor injuries.

‘Think Before You TREK’ is a bush safety initiative between the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service and NSW Police. For more information on how to be prepared, please visit: www.nationalparks. nsw.gov.au/safety/bushwalkingsafety/think-before-you-trek

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estfield Mt Druitt will unveil its $55 million rooftop dining, entertainment, and lifestyle precinct next month. Designed and curated specifically for the Western Sydney community, the redevelopment will take the centre’s dining offering to the ‘next level,’ introducing 15 restaurants and a large-scale Timezone.

At 6,500m2 the new rooftop precinct will connect with the existing rooftop car park, adjacent to HOYTS cinema, creating an integrated indoor-outdoor experience for the community to enjoy. Locally commissioned artwork and street art will also create bursts of colour throughout the precinct.

“In listening to our customers and understanding what they want, we set out to create Western Sydney’s new go-to rooftop dining and entertainment experience at Westfield Mt Druitt,” said Scentre Group Regional Manager Centre Experience, Danii Ashton.

“The new rooftop precinct features a combination of new and muchloved favourites, including Timezone, The Sporting Globe and TGI Fridays and is perfectly suited for any social gathering – from birthday celebrations to dinner and a movie with friends.

We’re looking forward to celebrating its grand opening with our customers next month.”

The next level line-up of new

dining and entertainment experiences includes: • Timezone - Will feature over 75 of the latest and greatest arcade games, a Laser Tag arena, Spin Zone Bumper Cars tracks, bowling lanes, dedicated multi-purpose party rooms and a Winners Vault for prizes and redemptions.

• The Sporting Globe - A place where fans, fanatics, friends, and families can gather and celebrate their passion for sport.

• TGI Fridays - Serving up your favourite American dishes right off the grill, delicious handcrafted cocktails and every day feels like a Friday.

• Enzo’s Cucina – Known for its unique atmosphere and prides itself on being a family-run restaurant making homemade Italian food from the freshest ingredients, in a cosy, family-friendly environment.

• Pappa Rich – Offering customers

a taste of Malaysian culture and cuisine, whether through a plate of Nasi Lemak or a crunchy, buttery Roti Canai, all with a cup of Teh Tarik.

• Slim’s Quality Burgers – A contemporary-classic burger offering inspired by 50s and ‘60s Americana made only from the highest quality, locally sourced ingredients.

• Pho Master – Savour Vietnamese food that will combine many elements of culinary traditions.

• Lilong by Taste of Shanghai - Lilong brings you an authentic Shanghai community and street dining experience. It is all about lively, memorable round-the-table moments with friends and family.

• Mad Mex - Offering fresh, gourmet, made-to-order Baja Mexican dishes combined with quick service, giving lovers of fresh Mexican fare a vibrant dine-in or take-away option.

• Little Bangkok – Serving up authentic and fabulous Thai street

food along with more elaborate and complex restaurant-style dishes; as well as new and exciting combinations that are a union of traditional and contemporary techniques.

• Caffe and Co - All day breakfast and brunch spot serving up classic breakfast and lunch cafe fare.

• Baskin Robbins - The world’s largest chain of ice cream specialty shops. Baskin-Robbins® creates and markets innovative, premium ice cream, specialty frozen desserts and beverages, providing quality and value to consumers. · Hero Sushi - Delicious sushi made fresh by Hero Sushi’s talented team of chefs, trained by Japanese Sushi Chefs.

• San Churro - A destination for friends to come together and share a sweet moment. Where every amigo is welcome to celebrate life, the Spanish way.

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Combatting online trolls and strengthening defamation laws

I

n a world-leading move, the Morrison Government will introduce new court powers to force global social media giants to unmask anonymous online trolls and better protect Australians online.

The reforms will be some of the strongest powers in the world when it comes to tackling damaging comments from anonymous online trolls and holding global social media giants to account.

The reforms will ensure social media companies are considered publishers and can be held liable for defamatory comments posted on their platforms.

They can avoid this liability if they provide information that ensures a victim can identify and commence defamation proceedings against the troll.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the rules that exist in the real world should exist online too.

“Social media can too often be a cowards’ palace, where the anonymous can bully, harass and ruin lives without consequence,” the Prime Minister said.

“We would not accept these faceless attacks in a school, at home, in the office, or on the street. And we must not stand for it online, on our devices and in our homes.

“We cannot allow social media platforms to provide a shield for anonymous trolls to destroy reputations and lives. We cannot allow social media platforms to take no responsibility for the content on their platforms. They cannot enable it, disseminate it, and wash their hands of it. This has to stop.

“These will be some of the strongest powers to tackle online trolls in the world.

“Anonymous trolls are on notice, you will be named and held to account for what you say. Big tech companies are on notice, remove the shield of anonymity or be held to account for what you publish.

“In a free society with free speech, you can’t be a coward and attack people and expect not to be held accountable for it.”

The reforms will give victims of defamatory online comments two ways to unmask trolls and resolve disputes.

First, global social media platforms will be required to establish a quick, simple and standardised complaints system that ensures defamatory remarks can be removed and trolls identified with their consent. This recognises that Australians often just want harmful comments removed.

Second, a new Federal Court order will be established that requires social media giants to disclose identifying details of trolls to victims, without consent, which will then enable a defamation case to be lodged.

Importantly, the reforms will also ensure everyday Australians and Australian organisations with a social media page are not legally considered publishers and cannot be held liable for any defamatory comments posted on their page, providing them with certainty.

Attorney-General Michaelia Cash said this was in response to the Voller High Court case, which made clear that Australians who maintain social media pages can be ‘publishers’ of defamatory comments

made by others on social media—even if the page owner does not know about the comments.

“Since the High Court’s decision in the Voller case, it is clear that ordinary Australians are at risk of being held legally responsible for defamatory material posted by anonymous online trolls,” the Attorney-General said.

“This is not fair and it is not right. Australians expect to be held accountable for their own actions, but shouldn’t be made to pay for the actions of others that they cannot control.

“The reforms will make clear that, in defamation law, Australians who operate or maintain a social media page are not ‘publishers’ of comments made by others.”

The Attorney General said the package of reforms would complement the defamation reforms currently being progressed in partnership with states and territories, and sit alongside the Government’s commitment to improving online safety.

“Social media providers should bear their fair share of responsibility for defamatory material published on their platforms,” the Attorney-General said. ‘This reflects the current law.’

“However, if defamatory comments are made in Australia, and social media providers help victims contact the individuals responsible, it is appropriate they have access to a defence.”

These new powers build on the Morrison Government’s other world-leading reforms, from establishing the eSafety Commissioner, to legislating the new Online Safety Act, to drafting new online privacy laws and securing support for global action to be discussed at the G20 in Indonesia in 2022.

An exposure draft of the legislation will be released in the coming week. This will provide all Australians, the industry, states, territories and stakeholders to have their say on these important new laws.

Nepean News 11 February 2022 Issue 322OWDIG

Westfield Mt Druitt announces retail lineup for $55 million upgrade

11

L❤ ving Local Be spoilt for choice in Penrith CBD this Valentine’s Day, with

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hile chocolate and flowers are traditionally considered romantic Valentine’s Day traditions, our pets who nibble on their owner’s gifts definitely will not be feeling the love.

Every special day on our calendar can bring a range of dangers for our pets.

Chocolate – After Christmas and Easter, Valentine’s Day brings a wave of chocolate toxicities into the clinic. Chocolate is toxic because it contains a chemical called theobromine, as well as caffeine.

Theobromine is the predominant toxin in chocolate and is very similar to caffeine. Both chemicals are also used medicinally as a diuretic, heart stimulant, blood vessel dilator, and a smooth muscle relaxant.

Dogs cannot metabolize theobromine and caffeine as well as people can. This makes them more sensitive to the chemicals’ effects.

Flowers - Roses are certainly the iconic flower of Valentine’s day, but mixed bouquets are also common. Unfortunately, lilies that can cause acute kidney injury in cats (Lillium sp. or Hemerocallis sp.) are commonly used in mixed bouquets. Symptoms of lily toxicity include vomiting, diarrhoea, lack of appetite, stomach pain, depression, difficulty swallowing, kidney damage, kidney failure, multiple organ failure, If you are

unsure of the flowers in your bouquet, there are many apps and websites with pictures of common flowers.

Onion & Garlic - A romantic meal for two sounds like the perfect idea for Valentine’s Day, at least until your cat jumps on the counter and starts eating the diced onion. While one bite may not be a problem, in cats 5 g/kg or more and in dogs 15 g/kg or more of onions has resultant in clinically significant hematologic changes.

Alcohol - What goes better with a good meal than a glass of wine? While the grapes in wine have not proven to be an issue for dogs, the alcohol certainly

could cause problems for them.

Chewing Gum - Gum containing xylitol may be a good bad-breath cure, but it’s also one of the most common sources of xylitol toxicity for dogs.

For dogs, xylitol ingestion can lead to seizures or even death, so it’s important to contact your vet immediately.

String and Ribbon - Cats love string and ribbon toys to bat around and carry in their mouths but swallowed ribbon and string can get caught in their stomach and intestines, requiring emergency surgery. To avoid this life-threatening situation, always monitor cats when they are playing with these types of toys.

Bath Bombs – Certain scented bath products like soaps, bath bombs and other objects that smell good enough to eat may encourage your dog to do just that! Whilst scented products are usually deliberately designed to taste bitter and unappealing to keep children from eating them, as anyone who owns a curious puppy will tell you, some dogs eat first and think later. Bath products and soap are unlikely to prove poisonous to your dog, but they will potentially give them a short bout of stomach problems, including diarrhoea and vomiting.

For more information give the team at Greencross Coreen Ave a call on 4731 3055.

13 Nepean News 11 February 2022 Issue 322OWDIG

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ENTERTAINMENT

By Noel Rowsell

T

he poignant drama ‘Here Out West’ was released nationally on February 3, including at Hoyts Cinema, Penrith.

The film features stories from eight talented Western Sydney writers, intertwined through themes of family and place, in a ground-breaking film which re-frames the Australian experience.

Among the talented writers is local actor / writer / producer / director Vonne Patiag (Minchinbury), who is an AACTA and AWGIE-nominated film-maker.

Born in Blacktown, Vonne attended St Michaels and Colyton PS’s, then Girraween Selective HS, followed by UTS, where he studied for a Bachelor of Communication (Media Arts and Production).

Vonne had always been interested in Drama and loved films, then when he discovered a friend belonged to Paws Inc., he took a more active interest in the entertainment industry, attending the Victorian College of Arts as a mature age student and the Acting Studio in a 1-year streamlined course.

Recently, he worked on ‘The Unusual

Local actor / writer / producer / director Vonne Patiag. Photo supplied

Suspects’ (4 x 1 hour episodes), cowriting and producing the series for SBS/Aquarius Films, released in mid 2021. Vonne was nominated for an AACTA and AWGIE Award for his work on ‘Halal Gurls’ (ABC, Create NSW), which he produced, directed and wrote inclusively, alongside a team of Muslim/female writers, and which was released on ABC iView, smashing viewership records on the ABC Comedy Youtube Channel.

Vonne’s short films have screened at multiple festivals across the world, including ‘Tomgirl’, which was funded through the GEFF Initiative

(Create NSW, SBS) and screened internationally at Palm Springs Shortsfest, also in the UK and China and is currently available to watch on SBS on Demand.

A second short film ‘Window’ premiered at the St Kilda Film Festival and has played at numerous national festivals.

In 2019, Vonne was profiled as a producer in the SPA ‘Ones To Watch’ program and was awarded the ‘Spirit Of The West’ award by ‘Made In The West Film Festival’, honouring his continued work in promoting and championing western Sydney

filmmaking.

Vonne’s story in ‘Here Out West’ is ‘The Long Shift’, which is a story that pays tribute to the workforce of women who form the backbone of not only their families but their communities as well. It is common for many Filipino women to work as nurses or domestic workers overseas, often for stints that last years, in which they are separated from their families.

This leaves a generation of children raised without their mothers, but still benefiting from their mother’s love, which manifests in a different way – it’s not often Filipino parents will tell their children “I love you,” but rather show this with sacrificial acts of service. These women weaponise their maternal instincts and are often paid as caregivers as a result.

“Here Out West was a fantastic opportunity to collaborate with so many voices from western Sydney,” said Vonne.

“I learned so much about the feature filmmaking process through working on this project and have upskilled in ways I never thought imaginable.

I’m looking forward to sharing this beautiful story with Australia and hope the collective of voices show that there are so many stories hidden in our own backyard.”

Nepean News 11 February 2022 Issue 322OWDIG

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ENTERTAINMENT

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he Mell-O-Tones are all set to swing Penrith with music from the golden age of Broadway and Hollywood, Latin-American cha-cha, rumba and mambo evergreens; and big band versions of the great songs associated with legends like Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra and Fred Astaire.

The 15 piece big band, led by conductor and vocalist Phillip Sametz (a name ABC Classic FM listeners will recognise), is a fixture on the Sydney arts and entertainment scene, performing everywhere from glittering opening night parties, to the Opera House New Year’s Eve celebrations, the Archibald Prize Preview and in annual concert seasons at the Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace in Cremorne. Their ABC Classics album Non-Stop Flight was nominated for an ARIA award for Best Jazz Album.

‘The last two years have made it clear just how special it is when audiences and artists are in the same space at the same time. The MellO-Tones can’t wait to play for you, making our debut at The Joan, in a program of life-giving music from the golden age of the big bands.’ – Phillip Sametz

The Mell-O-Tones will perform at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre on Saturday, 19 February at 2pm and 7:30pm.

Tickets: Special offer! Two tickets for the price of one, use the

code MELLO when booking online or by phone. Discount applies on all ticket prices.

Standard $60, Concession $55, Standard (PAL Member) $54, Concession (PAL Member) $49.50,

Seniors Matinee $40. A booking fee applies. www.thejoan.com.au/events/themell-o-tones-2022/ Dine and Discover vouchers are accepted.

Nepean News 11 February 2022 Issue 322OWDIG

Sydney’s finest jazz and swing musicians to perform at The Joan

17

ENTERTAINMENT

Nepean News 11 February 2022 Issue 322OWDIG

18

Q Theatre Lab residents to present developing works at The Joan

T

he 2022 Q Theatre Lab residents are in the house! The Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre welcomes this year’s residency recipients Linda Nicholls-Gridley, Jamie Oxenbould and Mary Rachel Brown.

These independent artists will spend three weeks developing their work and then offer audiences a unique behind-the-scenes experience with two intimate 30-minute preview performances. This is a chance to peek behind the curtain and see two plays, fresh off the page, back-to-back on the same night.

Silenced by Linda Nicholls-Gidley Silenced is a mix of verbatim theatre and authored work, exploring how our voice interlinks with ideas of identity, how we use it to ‘fit in’, how we carefully choose our words and how these words can be stripped from us, rendering us voiceless.

Silencing begins before we are even aware that it’s happening. We are bombarded by silence, becoming enslaved to the echoes of unspoken noises in our heads. It is a feeling that you cannot escape, of entrapment, and of freedom. It is personal and yet collective.

How loud is your silence?

Nicholls-Gidley said, ‘I want to explore how sound, music and language can isolate and silence us. I’m interested in exploring the yin and yang of sound and silence, examining how these contrary forces are interconnected and interdependent in the natural world, and how they may give rise to each other as they interrelate to one another and us.’

Kingdom by Jamie Oxenbould & Mary Rachel Brown Have you ever wondered what your pet thinks about you? What do they know about you that nobody else does? What do they do when you are not there?

If they could speak, what would they say to you?

How would they describe you to others?

Through a series of inter-connected monologues – some from people who have pets – some from the point of view of the animals themselves – two

Silenced

performers will inhabit various humans, dogs, cats, birds and possibly a snake, in a funny, moving and sometimes bizarre night of unconditional love, and how animals can make – or break our heart.

Oxenbould & Brown said, ‘As writers we are interested in the differences between the public and private face. The relationships that people have with their animals is a way of shining a light on those faces. We want to explore why it is that these other beings that we so intimately share the planet with have the ability to rescue us from loneliness, annoy us, unconditionally adore us, hold us to account and reflect our true nature.’

Q Theatre Lab is on at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre on Thursday, 17 February and Friday, 18 February at 7:30pm.

Tickets: Standard $25, Concession $20. A booking fee applies. www.thejoan.com.au/events/q-theatrelab-2022/ Dine and Discover vouchers are accepted.

Kingdom

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theatres or war. nation throughout all who have served our proud were lost. Lest We Forget.

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Call Korena now on 0403 045 880 or email korena@nepeannews.com.au

NEPEAN HISTORY

E

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

dwin James “Ted” Evans was born in Fakir.”) and was noted as having a beautiful delivery, March 1849 to parents James & Mary Evans quick rise from the pitch and, in the words of Lord (Colless). He was an Australian cricketer Harris, “an accuracy worthy of Alfred Shaw’”. who played in six Tests between 1881 and 1886.

(Alfred Shaw was an eminent Victorian cricketer Born in Emu Plains he entered Newington College and rugby footballer, who bowled the first ball in at Silverwater in 1865 where he had Joseph Coates Test cricket and was the first to take five wickets in a as his mentor who was then a prominent member of Test innings). When Nepean played Lord Sheffield’s the Albert Club, reportedly the premier club of the Englishmen, some of the local players were William day”, Joseph was an important asset who taught at Peter Howell known as ‘Bill’ or ‘Farmer Bill’ the school from 1864 to 1872 and returning later as who would play for NSW and Australia, James Headmaster. He was a noted member of the ‘2nd Oatley Cleeve (whose father was Chief Magistrate Albert’s’ and reportedly a good all-rounder and leftat Penrith), would play for NSWvVictoria in an hand bowler. With cricket organised at Newington Intercolonial match in 1882. The earliest recorded as a club, he and other Masters could play for the Nepean District player to play First-class cricket in school, as could former students. Another prominent 1874 was Ted, and from 1874 to 1884 he was second cricketer to emerge from Newington in the 1860s only to C.T.B. Turner (‘The Terror’) and the feared other than Ted, was Tom Garrett who also played Fred Spofforth (Frederick Robert Spofforth known as for Australia. The College was founded on 16 July “The Demon Bowler” was arguably the Australian 1863 and established as a result of a growing view cricket team’s finest pace bowler of the 19th century in the Wesleyan Methodist Church that an institution among all Australian bowlers). Ted was a talented  Photo of Edwin Evans courtesy of higher than elementary school was needed in and popular all-rounder who promised much but Wikipedia website Sydney. Newington House was the former home of turned out to be a reluctant champion. A right-hand colonial merchant and landowner John Blaxland on the banks of the batsman and a right-arm fast-medium bowler, he had a fine off break Parramatta River at Silverwater. The College opened with 16 students and could bowl all day. When he joined NSW the team enjoyed a great aged between seven and sixteen and was predominately Wesleyan measure of success, mainly through his efforts. Though he had some but opened to the sons of parents of all religious denominations also fine performances he repeatedly turned down opportunities at the last functioning as the home for theological training for the Methodist moment to play Inter-colonial and International cricket, including Church in NSW until 1914. It is known from contemporary accounts several tours of England. He provided any number of reasons ranging that boys played cricket from the start of the school, the ‘green’ being from injury, family matters (he was the father of 16 children), pressure close to the main buildings. Much of the cricket played would have been of business and even seasickness. His employment as “Inspector of informal matches organised within the school, however, Newington Selections” that were settled on by farmers required him to visit country was soon fielding teams to play not only against other schools but areas and this was considered the major problem. He toured England also against local clubs. School opponents included Camden College a with the 1886 team but did not meet with great success. Sadly, when Congregational school in Newtown, St Mark’s at Macquarie Fields and called up for the national team Ted’s accuracy deserted him and he Calder House School in Redfern. Before leaving the college Ted had failed to make a serious impact. He was, in reality, considered past his established the reputation of being “the best colt of the year”, but he prime at 38 and afterwards he made a career as a professional kangaroo had a few subsequent opportunities for taking part in first-class matches shooter. Such was his contribution to the game that in 1921/22 the in the metropolitan district. Without that advantage at Newington, he Nepean Association organised a subscription fund to purchase a shield became one of their best all round man. Ted left Emu when he was to honour his memory. Since then, the ‘Evans Shield’ has been awarded about 18 years of age and went to Bungle Gully (in the Walgett district), continuously to the Premiers in the NDCA A Grade Competition. Ted where the family had acquired a station. Ted was a good pigeon shot, was married twice. In 1872 he married Harriett Elizabeth “Dolly” York one of the best in the State in fact. He was musically inclined, being at Emu Plains. She died at her residence at Glebe Point in April 1891 a good singer and a fair violinist. He was a splendid horseman and at the age of 39 years after an illness of several years and is buried at could play a good game of tennis, a game which at that time was not Emu Plains cemetery with their son James York Evans. Ted’s second nearly so generally played as it is now. He often visited this district after marriage in July 1893 was to Susannah Lees in Sydney. She died in he went to Bungle Gully. He was about 22 years of age when he first September 1944 in a Private Hospital in Waverly. Ted was in hospital played in intercolonial cricket and was an off spinner with an ability to in September 1902 suffering from an attack of pleurisy. In July 1921 he consistently land the ball wherever he wanted to and it was said that died in the local hospital in Walgett from the effects of a paralytic stroke he could knock over a single stump in an average of one delivery out aged 72 years and is buried in Walgett cemetery. of every two and had some success in Australian first-class cricket and Sources: Newington College Register of Past Students 1863-1998 always referred to as a most genuine cricketer. Lord Harris’s comment (Sydney, 1999), pp. 60. Victoria, Australia. 31 March 1900. p. 20. in 1878 was that “he had never played against a finer bowler than Ted. Retrieved 1 August 2021 – via National Library of Australia. Victoria, As a fieldsman he was magnificent and in batting he proved a hard nut Australia. 9 November 1912. p. 28 (Town Edition). Retrieved 1 August to crack, his defence being admirable.” Ted (known as “Corkscrew” 2021 – via National Library of Australia, Sydney Morning Herald (NSW though among his more intimate associates he was known as “The : 1842 - 1954), Monday 4 July 1921, page 10, Penrith Cricket Club.

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Nepean News 11 February 2022 Issue 322OWDIG

One of the Old Time Greats

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Nepean News 11 February 2022 Issue 322OWDIG

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SPORT

Harrison claims Stonecutters Ridge Seniors

Action from the 2022 Stonecutters Ridge Seniors tournament on 7th February. Photos by Noel Rowsell

By Noel Rowsell

70 male golfers contested the Stonecutters Ridge Seniors golf tournament on Monday 7th February, with the Senior Order of Merit (SOOM) event being subjected to Sydney’s latest burst of inclement weather.

Rain squalls barraged the course on several occasions during the tournament and with the event featuring a shotgun start, it meant every player endured the same hardships, albeit on different

holes on the course.

In spite of Sydney’s heavy rainfall during the past few months, the Stonecutters Ridge course looked to be in magnificent condition, although the weather conditions, which included a stiff wind during the rain bursts, made scoring difficult for all players.

Two golfers from Monash CC upstaged the field on the day, with John Harrison (3 handicap) taking out the event with a 1-over par score of 72, ahead of club-mate Douglas Cullam (1) on 74.

The full list of winners is: Scratch and Overall Winner: John Harrison (Monash) 72, Runner-up Douglas Cullam (Monash) 74, 3rd place Russell Kellam (Dunheved) 77 c/b.

Division 1 Scratch: Steve Bricknall (Goulburn) 77 c/b; Division 2 Scratch: Warren Marsh (Kogarah) 75; Division 3 Scratch: Allen Lalor (Stonecutters Ridge) 79.

Nett Winner: Stephen Hall 71 (Forster-Tuncurry), Richard Singer (Mangrove) 72; Division 1 Nett: Stefan Albinski (Mona Vale); Division 2 Nett: John Osborn (Mudgee); Division 3 Nett: Keith Shaw (Maitland)

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SPORT

Wallacia Major Pennant team members Jason Jamison & Paul Cheshire braving the elements in Sunday’s big win over Campbelltown. Photos by Noel Rowsell

By Noel Rowsell

S

ydney turned on Melbournestyled weather for Round Two of the 2022 Golf NSW Major Pennant competition, with players exposed to intermittent sunshine, rain, wind and both hot and cold temperatures in a four-hour period.

For the second weekend in a row, the western Sydney Clubs have finished on the minus side of the ledger in the Men’s division, winning just 3 of 9 matches.

Division Two women also began their season on Sunday, with all games played at Sutherland as a central venue. Stonecutters Ridge defeated Pymble 3-2, with rookie Annoushka Maikap winning her first-ever Pennant match.

MEN: Div 1: St Michael’s 6-1 over Penrith, New South Wales 6-1 over Twin Creeks Country Club; Div 2: Dunheved Golf Club 5.5-1.5 over Pennant Hills, Killara 4.5-2.5 over Stonecutters Ridge; Div 3: Springwood 5.5-1.5 over Kogarah, Woolooware 5-2 over Richmond, Brighton Lakes 5.5-1.5 over Glenmore Heritage Valley; Div 4: Wallacia Country

Club 7-0 over Campbelltown, Northbridge 6-1 over Leonay.

WOMEN: Div 2: Stonecutters Ridge 3-2 over Pymble.

There are four Men’s home games to be played locally this Sunday, with Penrith hosting Pymble, Twin Creeks hosting Monash, Glenmore Heritage Valley hosting Richmond and Springwood hosting Bardwell Valley.

Stonecutters Ridge will be the central venue for the Division Two Women’s round, hosting Pymble vs Lynwood and Ryde-Parramatta vs Cronulla.

Nepean News

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Nepean News 11 February 2022 Issue 322OWDIG

Local clubs feeling the pressure in Major Pennant

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Nepean News 11 February 2022 Issue 322OWDIG

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SPORT

Royce reveals Big Walk to fund dementia research

By Noel Rowsell

D

ementia is a group of thinking and social symptoms which interferes with daily functioning. It is not a specific disease, rather a group of conditions characterised by impairment of at least two brain functions, such as memory loss and judgement.

Symptoms include forgetfulness, limited social skills, and thinking abilities so impaired, it interferes with daily functioning. Medication and therapies may help manage symptoms. Some causes are reversible.

Dementia is undoubtedly an insidious disease, it is the second-leading cause of death in Australians and the leading cause of death in women.

In 2022, there are almost 500,000 Australians living with the disease and 1,600,000 carers, whilst there were an estimated 28,800 people with younger onset dementia, expected to rise to 29,350 people by 2028 and 41,250 people by 2058. (This can include people in their 30s, 40s and 50s.)

These are all facts but unless we have a direct involvement with a person experiencing dementia or working with someone with the disease, the impact on our senses is often dulled.

That impact rises overall however when a more-widelyknown or famous person is diagnosed and provides a far stronger community interest in the disease.

Penrith Panthers Hall of Fame inductee Royce Simmons, a former captain of the Club, a member of the Club’s first-ever Grand Final winning team, a NSW representative and an Australian representative, announced last week he has been diagnosed with dementia.

Royce Simmons at his press conference at the Panthers Academy on Thursday 3rd February. Photos by Noel Rowsell

61-year old Royce initially kept the news quiet but recognised he is in a somewhat unique position to provide a much-needed boost, not only in the overall awareness of the disease but also to help raise funds for Dementia Australia.

Royce will walk 300km from his former hometown of Gooloogong to Penrith to raise funds, which will enable Dementia Australia to carry on medical research into the disease.

Royce’s Big Walk will start in Gooloogong on Tuesday 17 May and he plans to cover the near-300 km journey in ten days, crossing the finish line at BlueBet Stadium in Penrith on Friday 27 May, just in time for kick-off in the Panthers NRL game against North Queensland Cowboys.

“I want to help raise money for research as a mark of respect for the medical people who have worked so hard find a cure, or a successful treatment, and for all those people who suffer watching a loved one go down the path of losing who they once were,” Royce said.

“It (the diagnosis) bowls you over.

I’m fit, I’m only 61. It was hard to tell the family and I had to take the grandchildren into another room to talk to them.

“I said Poppy won’t know who you are anymore very soon but it’s not my fault.

“I’m looking forward to - I don’t know how long - but I’m doing everything I’m told (medically) and everything I can (fitness, diet) to hold it off as long as I can,” said Royce.

All donations are tax deductible and can be made on the Royce’s Big Walk event page: www. memorywalk.com.au/Royces-BigWalk Royce also spoke recently to journalist and author Neil Cadigan about his diagnosis and that full story can be read on the Panthers website at: https://bit.ly/RoyceNews

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Nepean News 11 February 2022 Issue 322OWDIG

Panthers reveals 2022 ANZAC Jersey Panthers is delighted to unveil the 2022 ANZAC Jersey, to be worn against Canberra Raiders on Sunday 24 April at BlueBet Stadium.

By PANTHERS MEDIA

T

he commemorative jersey is one of the club’s primary initiatives for ANZAC Round - when the game pays tribute to those who have put themselves in harm’s way to protect our way of life.

Key elements of the jersey include a traditional poppy and sprig of rosemary above the Panthers club logo, a subtle camouflage design on the black base, and the Australian and New Zealand flags positioned on the left and right sleeves.

The front of the jersey also features a strip of red poppies in place of the usual red stripe across the chest.

The back of the jersey is emblazoned with the eternal phrase - LEST WE FORGET. The 2022 ANZAC Jersey is now available for pre-order from the Panther Shop.

Please complete your pre-order before Thursday 17 February to guarantee delivery in time for ANZAC Round.

Panthers stun Thunderbolts in huge win

By Jessica MileS Panthers Junior Reporter

The SG Ball Panthers kicked off their season with a 46-0 annihilation of Victoria Thunderbolts at BlueBet Stadium on Saturday.

Second-rower Harrison Hassett bagged three tries while teammates Isaiya Katoa and Ethan Hutchings were impressive in attack for the home side.

The Panthers asserted their dominance early, with Kamoe Fekitoa crossing for the first try after only seven minutes of play.

Unfortunately the Panthers centre was forced out of the contest several

minutes later after appearing to suffer a knee injury in an awkward tackle.

Just as the Thunderbolts appeared set to hit back, a combined defensive effort from six Panthers snuffed out the try-scoring opportunity as the Victorian winger was driven into touch.

Instead it was the Panthers who were next to score, as lock Mason Teague found a gap in the line and charged through.

He was soon followed in by Hassett, with the subsequent conversion from five-eighth Keagan Russell-Smith taking the score to 16-0.

Fancy footwork by Russell-Smith, followed by a Katoa rainbow pass to winger Hutchings, made the score 20-0

23

as the half-time buzzer sounded.

HALF-TIME: PANTHERS 20 – THUNDERBOLTS 0 Panthers interchange forward Riley Wake received a no-look pass to muscle his way over the try-line shortly after the break.

Minutes later, Hassett powered over for his second try to take the score to 30-0.

With fatigue setting in, Victoria continued to hand the ball back to the Panthers and centre Angelis HoterePapalii extended the home side’s lead to 34-0 with 20 minutes left to play.

Moments later Katoa did it all himself with a chip kick fortuitously evading the Thunderbolts fullback, only to fall

back into the Penrith halfback’s grasp as he crossed the try-line.

Hassett then wrapped up his impressive hat-trick of tries with a 50-metre break down the left sideline as the Panthers celebrated a one-sided result.

FULL-TIME: PANTHERS 46 – THUNDERBOLTS 0

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