Nepean News 1 October 2020

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ISSUE 287

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By KeRRIE DAVIES

O

n Monday night Penrith City Councillors elected the Mayor and Deputy Mayor for the next 12 months; and this time it is a female pairing.

Labor’s Karen McKeown is the Mayor and Liberal Tricia Hitchen is the Deputy Mayor.

Under usual circumstances the Mayor is elected for a two-year period, but this year we were left with a one year term as the Council elections that were meant to be held in September were postponed until September 2021.

The two women replace the previous pair up of Liberal Ross Fowler (Mayor) and Karen McKeown as Deputy Mayor.

Nepean News 1 October 2020 Issue 287

Changing of the guard patioman

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By KeRRIE DAVIES

T

hings are looking up! Dare we imagine life without being shackled to a pandemic? At the time of going to press, NSW had been a few days with zero community cases. That’s great news, and this month we move in to a phase that is the most unrestricted period we have seen in over six months.

But it does feel a bit De Ja Vu - we’ve been here before. And the last time, just as we began to feel confident that life might return to some version of normal, Victoria brought the curtain down on us like a concrete wall.

But, quarantine failings aside, Victoria is proof that when the numbers are up, restrictions and isolation works. I sure wish some other countries would take note, their death rates are extremely alarming. It looks like it will be quite some time before leisure travel to the Northern Hemisphere is back on.

But locally, it finally looks like the things we enjoy most are beginning to appear back on the menu. We are in the most relaxed mode we’ve been in since March.

All the isolation, sanitising, cleansing, distancing, mask wearing and knuckle-greeting has paid off, and our state is a shining example of how to battle our way through a pandemic.

While it’s seemingly impossible these days to be a leader who governs to perfection, I think Gladys has come pretty close. It is hard enough to do what is best for everyone in calm waters, but she’s doing it through a tsunami.

She has steered this ship incredibly well.

I’m incredibly grateful to be from NSW, and from Australia; and more so at this time than I’ve ever been.

Of course it is important that we don’t get too lax and we keep up the social distancing measures, but let’s also enjoy our newfound freedom!

Let’s enjoy being around the people we love, support our local economy and support Australian made.

Happy days.

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By KeRRIE DAVIES

N

epean Hospital’s Cardiac Catheterisation Laboratory (Cardiac Cath Lab) now offers an expanded and comprehensive cardiac electrophysiology service, providing a local treatment option for residents with heart rhythm problems.

Following the introduction of new 3D mapping technology and the appointment of cardiac electrophysiologist, Dr Ihab El-Sokkari, the electrophysiology service can now diagnose and treat patients with a variety of complex heart rhythm problems, known as arrhythmias.

“There are different types of electrical short circuits that can cause rhythm problems in the heart. Some of them are easy to locate and treat, while some are more difficult and require newer technologies,” Dr El-Sokkari explained.

For some heart rhythm problems, an electrophysiology procedure can cure the arrhythmia with a success rate greater than 95 percent and a recurrence rate less than five percent.

Until recently, the basic electrophysiology service at Nepean Hospital treated patients with supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), a common cardiac disturbance. However, patients with more complex arrhythmias had to receive their treatment at hospitals outside the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District, where they could potentially encounter lengthy wait times.

The introduction of new 3D mapping technology allows the expanded Nepean Hospital service to treat SVT and complex heart rhythm problems such

as atrial fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia, ectopic beats and atrial flutters.

Dr El-Sokkari says the expansion of the electrophysiology service has not only ensured patients can receive their care locally, but improved the safety of the procedure and increased the number of cases treated at the hospital each year.

“The new 3D mapping technology within our electrophysiology service allows us to potentially eliminate the need for x-ray and radiation within the procedure. It also allows us to localise things with accuracy that we didn’t have before with x-ray alone. We can now pinpoint the catheters in the heart within millimetres of accuracy,” says Dr El-Sokkari.

Previously, the electrophysiology service treated an average of 15 cases per year. However, and despite a postponement of procedures earlier this year due to COVID-19, the expanded service has completed 45 cases so far this year, managing an average of two cases a week within the Cardiac Cath Lab. The enhancement of the electrophysiology service is part of an ongoing expansion of cardiac services at Nepean Hospital.

Access to the service is available via cardiologist referral.

Stuart Ayres MP Member for Penrith

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MELISSA McINTOSH MP FEDERAL MEMBER FOR LINDSAY Ground Floor, 331 High Street, Penrith NSW 2750 02 4722 0600 melissa.mcintosh.mp@aph.gov.au www.melissamcintosh.com.au MelissaMcIntoshforLindsay Authorised by Melissa McIntosh MP, Liberal Party of Australia, Ground Floor, 331 High Street, Penrith NSW 2750.

Nepean News 1 October 2020 Issue 287

Cardiac electrophysiology service expanded

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Authorised by Melissa McIntosh MP, Liberal Party of Australia, 331 High St, Penrith NSW 2750.

local news

free pilot program to help new and expectant fathers

through the physical emotional and mental, challenges of parenthood is being rolled out in the Western Sydney region.

The region is one of four, including Northern NSW, Northern Sydney, and the Murrumbidgee region to take part in the ‘Focus on New Fathers’ pilot program.

The program sends texts to dads, offering valuable health advice and links into pathways to ensure support options are available.

Western Sydney Local Health District Integrated and Community Health Child and Family program lead Lyn Tunchon said parenthood could be a difficult time for new fathers and mothers.

“New dads want to be able to concentrate on their partners and children at this time, and they often don’t think to look after themselves as well,” Lyn said.

“Research has shown men are often reluctant to engage with the health system to get support, despite around one in ten dads experiencing depression and anxiety in the postnatal period.

“This program is about letting

Photo courtesy Getty Images.

fathers know they’re not alone and there is support for them when they need it.”

Men living in Western Sydney can sign up if they are over the age of 18, their partner is at least 16 weeks pregnant or their baby is younger than 24 weeks. They need to have a mobile phone capable of receiving and sending text messages.

The pilot, which is being delivered by the University of Newcastle in partnership with NSW Health, will run over the next year.

Associate Professor Elisabeth Murphy, Senior Clinical Advisor, Child and Family Health, said selfcare for new fathers was extremely important as the mental and physical wellbeing of both parents had a direct

effect on their children.

“Receiving help with health issues early on ensures dads are in the best possible position to care for their new baby and partner,” Associate Professor Murphy said.

For more information, and to sign up for the program, visit: https://www. health.nsw.gov.au/public/Pages/focuson-fathers.aspx

Nepean News 1 October 2020 Issue 287

Putting the focus on new dads A

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tuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith welcomes the announcement that community organisations in Penrith impacted

by COVID-19 can now apply for funding, thanks to the next round of the NSW Government’s Infrastructure Grants program which are now open.

Stuart Ayres said the economic impacts of COVID-19 have meant some communities have struggled to maintain sports, cultural and other social activities.

“Community sporting and cultural organisations are the lifeblood for many communities and this funding can be used for projects that foster equity, social inclusion and participation,” Stuart Ayres said.

“We want these organisations to not just keep their doors open but to grow and prosper.

“Clubgrants funding is designed to give community organisations a boost when and where it’s needed most – it is available for projects to build, repair or upgrade facilities across arts and culture, sport and recreation, disaster readiness and community infrastructure.”

The last round of the program gave a weighting to projects to repair and rebuild community assets affected by bushfires and COVID-19, and such

projects will remain in the priority framework for this round.

Community infrastructure is also now a standalone category and it can be used for spaces like halls and meeting rooms, community transport, and infrastructure that supports youth, disability, mental health,

homelessness, and domestic violence services.

The grants are made possible by the Clubgrants Category 3 Fund which re-invests profits from registered clubs’ gaming machines into a statewide funding pool for large-scale community projects.

Since 2015, the NSW Government has funded more than 350 community projects worth $62.8 million under Infrastructure Grants.

To find out more information or to apply, please visit responsiblegambling.nsw.gov.au.

Applications close 12 October 2020.

Nepean News 1 October 2020 Issue 287

Penrith Community Organisations - apply now!

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Nepean News 1 October 2020 Issue 287

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local news

Gatherings: here’s what you can and can’t do

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ollow the rules around gatherings, and stay safe whether you are working, visiting family and friends, or going out.

Strict rules and COVID-19 Safety Plan requirements have been put into place as part of Term 4 school guidelines to allow: • school formals and graduation ceremonies • inter-school activities • singing, chanting and playing of musical instruments • orientation, excursions and camps • face-to-face learning under the Community Languages Schools Program.

Sport and recreation More than one parent may attend community sporting activities if physical distancing of at least 1.5 metres can be maintained between people that are not from the same household.

Visitors at home If there are more than 20 visitors at a home, every person will be held individually responsible for a breach of the public health order.

Weddings Venues can take bookings for weddings and events to be held in the future for more people than allowed under current rules, as long as the rules that apply when the event is held are obeyed.

Up to 150 people are allowed to attend a wedding service at a place of public worship.

Up to 20 people in the official wedding party are permitted on the dance floor.

Churches and places of public worship

If a place of public worship has multiple buildings at a single location: • each building can have as many people as allowed under the 4 square metre rule, up to a maximum of 100 people • each building must be designated as a separate area with its own COVID-19 Safety Plan and separate staff • each service or event must start and finish at a different time.

Auctions and open house viewings People attending an on-site auction or viewing a home to lease or buy the property are exempt from the 20 visitor rule and will not be counted as visitors.

Real estate agents must have a COVID-19 Safety Plan in place for viewings or inspections of on-site open homes and for public auctions.

Funerals, memorial services and wakes The maximum number of people who may attend

a funeral or memorial service or a gathering following a funeral or memorial service, is the lesser of one person per 4 square metres or 100 people. Funerals at outdoor public places or a place of residence are subject to the same limits.

Places of public worship can have up to 100 people subject to the 4 square metre rule and must be registered as a COVID Safe venue. Funeral homes and crematoria must also be registered as a COVID Safe business.

People attending the service will be required to supply their name and contact details so that they can be used for contact tracing Current restrictions on businesses All businesses can now open and operate under the one person per 4 square metre rule. Some businesses will be subject to specific restrictions about the maximum number of people permitted at the venue, such as hospitality venues and places of public worship.

Under the rules, employers must allow employees to work from home where it is reasonably practical to do so.

For some types of businesses, you are required to have a COVID-19 Safety Plan. A COVID-19 Safety plan is recommended for other types of businesses.

Find out about developing a COVID-19 Safety Plan for your business.

Some venues are also required to register as a COVID safe venue. This includes hospitality venues, places of public worship, funeral homes, crematoria and gyms.

Time to get out in the sun: safe summer plan

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new plan will ensure NSW residents can get out and about this summer in a COVID-safe way, while keeping the economy moving.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes, Minister for Customer Service Victor Dominello, Member for Manly James Griffin and NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant outlined the NSW Government’s new COVID Safe Summer Plan this morning.

The Plan supports local businesses by encouraging more outdoor dining in the lead up to the Christmas-New Year period and throughout the summer months.

It also provides clear instructions to help keep COVID under control as residents enjoy the warmer months.

“We know how much our community loves fresh air, beaches and parklands, but we will all need to do that a bit differently this summer,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“The COVID Safe Summer Plan encourages the community and local businesses to take advantage of our glorious warm weather while using public spaces safely.

“In NSW we are continuing to try to get the right balance between keeping the State open for business, while keeping control of the virus.”

The Plan has five pillars which will help support the current public health orders, rules and regulations: • Marking out safe distancing in our parklands and highly visited public spaces from the beginning of October,

• Encouraging all beachgoers to ‘Keep a beach towel length between you’ (1.5 metres) and anyone not from the same household, • Running a COVID Safe summer program of events in our parklands and public spaces, • Encouraging local businesses to take advantage of outdoor dining, and • Partnering with councils on a ‘new local’ campaign, to showcase alternative public spaces for the community to enjoy.

Mr Stokes thanked local councils who are already keeping the community safe as the warmer months arrive.

“Our councils are leading the way, by trialling approaches on their beaches like changing parking arrangements and creating safe swimming areas so that beaches remain safe and welcoming places for the community,” Mr Stokes said.

“Sydney is the greatest parkland city on earth, and the pandemic has emphasised how important it is for our well-being that we all have access to public spaces and parklands. This plan ensures a common-sense approach.”

Mr Dominello said COVID safety must be the priority of every citizen and business owner this summer.

“While summer is a time to get out and about and spend time with friends and families, we cannot be complacent because we are still in the midst of a pandemic. We must all remain vigilant and look out for each other,” Mr Dominello said.

“We need people to continue to do the simple things. Whether it’s maintaining good hand hygiene, keeping physical distance, wearing a mask in public places where physical distance can’t be maintained and using digital check-in solutions such as the Service NSW app – these behaviours are now part of the new normal. We can’t afford to drop our guard over the summer months.”

Mr Griffin said NSW will lead the way in showing the world how to still enjoy the summer while remaining COVID Safe.

“We don’t need to retreat indoors this summer – we just have to do things a little differently so we can enjoy places like the Northern Beaches and stay safe,” Mr Griffin said.

Dr Kerry Chant said outdoor activity was inherently safer than indoor activity.

“People need to remember to stay home, isolate and get tested if they have symptoms, always practice good hand hygiene and maintain one and a half metre social distancing,” Dr Chant said.

local news

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epean Blue Mountains Local Health District (NBMLHD) staff have responded to the COVID-19 pandemic with high spirits, unity and dedication. Stepping up to answer the call, they have protected our local community by screening at health facilities, testing our population and caring for people diagnosed with COVID-19.

Recently, several staff lent their skills to the cause further afield and travelled to Victoria where they answered the urgent call to help the state’s response to COVID-19.

NBMLHD staff Gerard Oomen, Stuart Larter and Sara List were unaware of the full impact of Victoria’s second wave until they were in the thick of it.

“It was a health system understandably stretched.

Staff were tired and overrun,” says Gerard, who was working as a Screening Registered Nurse at Royal Melbourne Hospital.

The team from NSW dug in and worked hard to make a difference.

“We needed to be flexible to adapt to our circumstances when information and planning was limited,” says Stuart, who was placed in a ‘virtual ward’ clinically monitoring COVID patients who could be kept out of hospitals. “Staff from NSW Health worked well as a team to support each other and share information and advice.”

Sara, also at Royal Melbourne, believes the experience cemented the difference a supportive team makes, especially when treating masses of acutely unwell patients coming through an

NBMLHD staff members Gerard, Sara and Stuart lent their support to our Victorian neighbours.

Emergency Department.

For the team, travelling to Victoria wasn’t just a significant learning opportunity but a reminder of how quickly life can change.

“Having our liberties and freedoms removed as a result of the COVID virus is something that has only mildly impacted the citizens of NSW to date. With the Stage 4 restrictions in Victoria it was evident to all that this is something we do not want

to again experience,” says Gerard.

Grateful to now be home, the team stressed the importance of not taking our current situation in NSW for granted.

If you have mild cold or flu symptoms don’t assume it’s not COVID. Get tested early. Stay home if you’re unwell or waiting on a result. Remember to wear a face mask and maintain social distance when necessary.

2020 Quality Awards winners announced

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ix COVID-19 related projects were announced winners at the annual Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) Quality Awards ceremony on Wednesday, 23 September.

Community members were able to watch for the first time as Seven News presenter Samantha Brett and actor-comedian Rob Shehadie hosted the live broadcast to thousands of viewers.

The annual recognition of staff innovations and achievements took on extra significance this year in light of the catastrophic summer bushfire season followed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Teams from areas including mental health, youth health, physiotherapy and many more were recognised, and for the first time four staff members were recognised as Employees of the Year.

WSLHD chief executive Graeme Loy congratulated each of the 52 teams who entered projects and thanked every employee for their hard work this year.

“I have been constantly amazed by the actions and efforts of all of our staff. You have done an incredible job coming to work every day to support our patients, and equally as importantly to support each other,” Graeme said.

“You are amazing every day. Every single one of you has been working absolutely flat-out doing brilliant things and tonight is all about you.”

The winners of the 2020 Quality Awards were: • Transforming Patient Experience - Just Ask It (Auburn Hospital) • Delivering Integrated Health Care - Pathways to Community Living Initiative (Mental Health Services) • Patient Safety First - Keeping Clozapine Patients Safe During COVID-19 (Mental Health Services) • Keeping People Healthy - COVID Street Fighters

WSLHD Executive members (left to right) Allied Health director Jacquline Dominish, Nursing, Midiwifery and Clinical Governance director Carol Farmer, Medical Services executive director Dr Emma McCahon and chief executive Graeme Loy with hosts Rob Shehadie and Samantha Brett.

(Youth Health) • Supporting Our Teams - Workplace Wellness in the Time of COVID-19 and Beyond (People and Culture) • A Safe and Healthy Workplace – Contain the Contagion! A Clinical Mission to Eradicate Transmission (Integrated and Community Health) • Innovation and Research – PPE Predict (Infection Prevention and Disease Control) • Education and Training – Flipping COVID

Facedown (Physiotherapy Department, Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals) • Chief Executive Award – Workplace Wellness in the Time of COVID-19 and Beyond (People and Culture) • Board Chair Award – Keeping Clozapine Patients Safe During COVID-19 (Mental Health Services) The ever-popular People’s Choice Award received more than 16,000 votes online, and the winner was Newborn Education and Skills Training.

Nepean News 1 October 2020 Issue 287

Local hospital staff help out in Vic

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Nepean News 1 October 2020 Issue 287

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LOCAL NEWS

Ses prepares the community for storm season

Group shot of attendees at the Media Launch.

NSW SES Commissioner Carlene York.

By Noel Rowsell

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SW Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott and NSW SES Commissioner Carlene York held a Media Conference at the Penrith Whitewater Stadium on Friday 25th September, launching the ‘Get Ready for Storm Season’ to the community.

“In the past few months, there has been widespread flooding in NSW, especially in communities along the South Coast,” Minister Elliot said.

“Unfortunately, some people are not heeding the warnings of NSW SES and are risking their lives by driving through floodwaters.”

“In fact, over the last 8 months alone, NSW SES has received 500 flood rescue requests from people who have done exactly that.”

“You wouldn’t run into a bushfire, so we are asking the community to help NSW SES volunteers by never driving, walking or riding through floodwater - it is dangerous,” said Minister Elliott.

Commissioner York said people should always be aware of the dangers.

“While storm season usually falls between October to March each year, severe weather can happen at any time and people should always be prepared,” Commissioner York said.

“Our dedicated NSW SES volunteers selflessly give up their own time to protect their communities during floods and storms.”

“It is important to know your flood risk and have an emergency plan in place for what you will do in the event of a flood,” said Commissioner York.

A rescue from a sunken car.

A rescue of a person washed into water. Photos by Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

Minister for Sport and Emergency Services David Elliott.

“Don’t be scared, be prepared.”

The NSW Government has introduced a number of new safety initiatives, changing the way large scale evacuations in NSW are carried out to protect the health and lives of the community during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as masks will be used as appropriate at Evacuation Centres,

with screening for symptoms in place when required. The Government also encourages evacuees to stay with family or friends where possible to prevent over-crowding.

NSW SES has 9,500 volunteers who partner with their communities prior to and during emergencies. For more storm safety tips and how communities can prepare for storm and flood events, visit www.ses.nsw.gov.au

local news

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ast month was Therapy Dogs Awareness Month and Nepean Blue Mountains Health leapt at the chance to say thanks to the furry friends and volunteers that have uplifted them.

Pet therapy has many physical and mental benefits including reducing blood pressure, reducing stress and releasing endorphins to produce a calming effect.

Patients, visitors and staff at Nepean Hospital have enjoyed the cuddles, comfort and emotional support you’ve provided.

Thank you Nepean Therapy Dogs!

Fund-raising success for Prostate Cancer Support Group

Photos: Supplied by NBMPCSG

By Noel Rowsell

I

n spite of Covid-19 worries in the community, it has been a great September for fund-raising for the Nepean Blue Mts Prostate Cancer Support Group (NBMPCSG).

Emu Plains Lions Club have agreed to sponsor the NBMPCSG website www.prostatesupport.org.au, with Lions Life Member John Choma presenting his Club’s sponsorship cheque to NBMPCSG President David Wilkinson.

“Emu Plains Lions are pleased to be able to support a local group providing support for men with prostate cancer, their spouses and carers,” Mr Wilkinson said.

He thanked John Choma and the Emu Plains Lions

for their generous sponsorship and assured all Lions members present that the funds would be used as intended.

A “Blue” Charity Day for the NBMPCSG was also held at Leonay GC on 19th September, after originally being scheduled for 15 August.

195 golfers teed off in September, with the majority of green fees being donated to the Support Group, whose members also sold raffle tickets on both the original day and the rescheduled day.

The scratch winners on the day were led by Leonay GC Professional Ben Breckenridge, playing alongside his brother Michael, Simon Masters and Coby Carruthers.

Proceeds from the two raffles and the donation was much appreciated by the Support Group and President

David Wilkinson thanked Leonay Club Captain Ross Butcher and the Golf Committee, together with the members and visitors, for playing on the day and for their generous support with raffle tickets.

David also thanked the sponsors of the first raffle (Emu Sports Club, Leonay GC Committee, member Wayne Worthy and Head Professional Ben Breckenridge) for their support.

NBMPCSG is scheduled to meet on the third Monday of each month at St Stephen’s Anglican Church Hall, 254 High Street but COVID–19 has cancelled these face to face meetings and Zoom meetings are being held in their place. The Group can be contacted on 1300 13 38 78, president@ prostatesupport.org.au or www.prostatesupport. org.au.

Nepean News 1 October 2020 Issue 287

Nepean Therapy Dogs create pawsitive effect

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local news

WIN the ultimate coffee table Panthers book

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ost people are pretty familiar with a QR Code these days, although you may not know it by name.

Since COVID-19 appeared and changed our world completely, there’s been a government requirement for people to sign in to venues so that anybody who visited at the same time as a positive case can be traced and contacted.

QR Codes have been the check-in mode of choice used by many venues, as it minimises the touching of pens and paper and the hassle of keeping a paper trail of who has visited.

The way the QR Code works is very simple: you click and open the camera on your phone, hover it over the QR Code supplied and it brings up the site for you to enter your details.

QR Codes can be quite useful for other things, too, such as getting pages of information just by hovering over a code.

Nepean News and a secret advertising partner are giving away three copies of The Panthers -Men in Black book (personally signed by a couple of legends) in our QR Code Reveal promotion.

HOW TO ENTER THE DRAW TO WIN: 1. Spot the red QR Code inside this publication 2. Once spotted, hover your phone over the red coloured code 3. Visit the website that it takes you to 4. Email us at nepeannews@aol.com and tell us the name of the place that the QR Code reveals to go in the draw to win one of three signed books Start flicking through!

Entries close on October 8, drawn winner will be notified on October 9

Upgrades to sporting facilities in St Clair

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t Clair sports clubs will receive a major boost following the commencement of work on upgrades to Mark Leece Sportsground.

The upgrade includes a new amenities block featuring femalefriendly changerooms and increased storage which was funded through a $1.285 million grant from Round 1 of the NSW Government’s Greater Sydney Sports Facility Fund and $415,000 from Penrith City Council.

Member for Mulgoa, Tanya Davies welcomed the commencement of work on the upgrades which will provide sporting infrastructure that will help keep the St Clair community healthy and active.

“Sport is a vital part of the St Clair community,” Ms Davies said.

“The upgrades to Mark Leece Sportsground will enable St Clair residents to enjoy the benefits of regular activity and exercise at an inclusive community sport facility.”

Acting Minister for Sport Geoff Lee said the Greater Sydney Sports Facility Fund provides many benefits to NSW. “It is vital people have accessible, safe and inclusive sports infrastructure in their communities,” Mr Lee said.

“Projects like the upgrades to Mark

Leece Sportsground boost sport across Greater Sydney and also stimulate the economy through jobs and investment.”

The Greater Sydney Sports Facility Fund is a three-year $100 million NSW Government investment to

improve the quality and quantity of sports infrastructure across Sydney.

It encourages the development of multi-use, multi-purpose, shared and co-located facilities.

During the first two rounds of the Fund, 37 projects have shared in

$73.35 million in grants.

The Fund is part of the $340 million Open Spaces and Greener Sydney initiative.

More info at: www.sport.nsw.gov. au/clubs/grants/greater-sydney-sportsfacility-fund

SHOP & Dine Local this

Long Weekend in the CBD

Supporting the McGrath Foundation Pink Up Penrith funds Breast Care Nurses for the Nepean Area

Get your merchandise and fun pink items for the Pink Up Month Visit www.pinkuppenrith.com.au

or call into our office Suite 3, 488 High Street, Penrith or call 4722 5556

Taste the delights at Twilight

Food Trucks and Stalls

Saturday 3rd October, 4-9pm Rear PCYC - 100 Station St, Penrith Proudly supporting local business

www.penrithcbdcorp.com.au

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local news

Connecting students with employment opportunities

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ederal Member for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh MP, has delivered her election commitment of $250,000 for the Inspiring the Future program delivered by local organisation, Schools Industry Partnership, to connect students in our community with employment opportunities.

“During the election, I announced $250,000 for the Inspiring the Future Program, bringing together mentors in our community to provide support and guidance for local school students and school leavers,” said Ms McIntosh.

“This program also has a focus on assisting young women, and as one mentor highlighted; ‘it’s been a fantastic chance to help the young female workforce of the future.’

“With my previous experience in higher education and the not-for-profit sector working in getting more women into employment, I know that mentor programs can be the most impactful way of changing lives. I look forward to seeing the pathways of all participants in the program into new and exciting jobs,” said Ms McIntosh.

Director of Inspiring the Future Australia, Adrian Rhodes said the program has been invaluable for volunteers to be positive role models, and share their own practical insights, experience and connections, and in some cases, employment for young people who are at school or accessing youth services.

“The stunning results of the Inspiring the Future events held so far in Western Sydney has escalated

demand for even more volunteers. Sadly, half the requests from local teachers are not currently being serviced. Inspiring the Future is therefore inviting many more local people from a diverse range of occupations and industry sectors to visit its website www.inspiringthefuture.org.au to offer at least one hour per year to help raise the aspirations of young people in Penrith and the Blue Mountains especially,” said Mr Rhodes.

“I encourage anyone interested in mentoring our future leaders to get involved with Inspiring the Future. I will always advocate for projects that benefit our local students, and I’m excited to see the outcomes of these experiences for our community,” said Ms McIntosh.

Domestic violence training for community and religious leaders

C

ommunity and religious leaders will be empowered to respond to domestic and family violence through a new training program to begin this month.

Attorney General and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence Mark Speakman said the accredited course, run by TAFE NSW, will give participants the tools and resources to help people who seek their guidance.

Mr Speakman said the training aimed to strengthen victim support while encouraging increased reporting across the state.

“Multicultural communities and those who’ve recently emigrated to NSW will often look to local community or religious leaders as a first point of contact about a range of issues, including potential domestic abuse,” Mr Speakman said.

“It’s hoped this training will make a significant difference for those who face many barriers to reporting violence in the home, or may even struggle to identify it in the first place.

“This is particularly important in the current COVID-19 climate where frontline domestic violence services have reported increases in the number of victims seeking support. Empowering leaders in the community means victim-survivors have more avenues for help.

“Educated with the right information and the skills to recognise abuse in different forms means leaders may be able to provide that vital support to survivors for the first time and, ultimately, help ensure that people get the crucial help they need in times of crisis.”

Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education and Acting Minister for Multiculturalism Geoff Lee said community and religious leaders are recognised and respected voices who will now be better equipped

to support victims who seek their help.

“They can help promote healthy relationships and encourage perpetrators to change their behaviour and help victims seek the appropriate services and support,” Mr Lee said.

“The initial response when a disclosure is made can heavily affect the outcome for victims – so this training could very well save lives.”

Sikh community leader Harinder Kaur said

community and religious leaders are an important part of culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities’ and migrants’ lives, and community members trust them.

“If community and religious leaders educate themselves about the current complexities of domestic and family violence, they can give community members practical solutions and link them to the right services, while supporting them spiritually,” Ms Kaur said.

The sessions will cover topics including awareness training of what constitutes domestic violence, ‘accidental counselling’, managing vicarious trauma, child protection and reporting responsibilities, as well as safety assessment skills.

Referral information and other resources will also be provided for ongoing practical support.

There will be four two-day courses (three in metropolitan areas and one in regional NSW) with a maximum of 25 leaders on each course.

The courses complement awareness training already delivered by the NSW Government’s Diversity Services team, which have reached 170 leaders between October 2018 and June this year.

This new course is more detailed and rigorous, and participants will be presented with a certificate at completion.

The free ‘COVID-safe’ training is open to any recognised religious or community leader who works within NSW. For more information, or to register interest contact diversity-services@justice.nsw.gov.au.

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).

local news

F

ifteen years ago, BOQ Penrith opened their doors for the first time.

Since then, under the leadership of OwnerManager, Anthony Walker, the branch has gone from strength to strength.

“We had to build our customer base from the ground up,” Anthony said.

“We of course had friends and family who supported us, but we really had to establish ourselves in the community as quickly as possible.”

Anthony has owned and managed BOQ Penrith from the beginning. After a successful 17-year banking career, the opportunity to start his own business presented an exciting new challenge.

“Whilst I had a great career, I always felt like there was more I could give to both my customers and team.”

“That, combined with a desire to work for myself, led me to start researching. I looked at a few different options but never did I think there would be a banking option like the one BOQ presented.”

“When I heard about BOQ and the franchise model I immediately thought it was perfect. That’s where it started and the rest, as you would say, is history.”

While today BOQ Penrith is a successful small business, it wasn’t always smooth sailing, particularly in those first few years.

“It was a real challenge for the first 24 to 36 months but we persevered, getting out into the community, meeting people and building our brand.”

“The community support we’ve received is really what’s allowed us to continue and get to where we

are now. Our customers were looking for something different and that’s what the BOQ model delivers.”

A strong foundation of personal service, combined with exceptional banking experiences, is what keeps customers coming through the BOQ Penrith doors.

And while they have gone through their ups and downs over the years, Anthony has never regretted

his decision to join BOQ as an Owner-Manager.

“I have strongly believed in this journey all along the way,” he said.

“I’ve had some sleepless nights, just like anyone in business does. But I’ve always had the passion and I knew that as long as I had the right people working alongside me, who had the same values and knew what we were here to deliver, then we would be okay.”

When it comes to choosing his employees, Anthony looks beyond resumes and cover letters to identify the same passion and drive that has defined his own career. In his view, it makes all the difference.

“I’m always on the look-out for the right people to get on the proverbial ‘bus’ with me,” he said.

“If they’re the right people, I bring them on because I know they’re going to take this business to another level and deliver the first class service that our customers deserve.”

Anthony and his team are committed to helping their customers’ with all of their banking needs, from everyday accounts and home loans, through to business accounts and finance.

“We take the time to really get to know our customers personally and understand their goals. This relationship enables us to provide the exceptional BOQ service our customers know and love,” he said.

So for all your banking solutions, pop in and visit Anthony and the friendly BOQ Penrith team at 77 Station Street, Penrith, or give them a call on (02) 4723 7650.

Nepean News 1 October 2020 Issue 287

Milestone birthday for local BOQ Penrith team

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Nepean News 1 October 2020 Issue 287

18

local news

Getting fitter each week at MG Activ

By KeRRIE DAVIES

S

o now I’m no longer considered a newbie, I’ve been going to the gym for just over a month!

I do the 6am class most days; with the occasional 9.30am here and there.

I’ve now lost 4 kilos, and while that doesn’t sound very dramatic, I can feel the difference. It’s a full dress size!

Perhaps more importantly than shedding a few kilos, I feel so much fitter. And MG says he’s noticing I’m fitter.

Greg has noticed too. Just the other day as I jumped out of the car at Woolies, I dropped my card holder thingie with all my credit cards etc in it. After I picked them up I wondered if any had gone under the the car, and without thinking twice, assumed push up position so I could check under the car.

Absolutely zero chance I would have done that a month ago.

And just when I started to think I’ve hit the jackpot, MG has introduced a new word that’s had me going from disappointment to elation: GOALS. Yes goals.

Whatever level I had reached, be it on the treadmill, rowing machine or assault bike, MG has raised the bar on how fast I’m to now get to. At first his goals seemed impossible. As he’d walk away I’d mouth “no chance” behind his head. But he’s too smart for me - he stopped walking away and started watching. And so far I’ve

MG setting the agenda for the session

managed to smash three out of the four goals he set. God only knows what he’s got in store once I master the fourth one!

I must admit though, after hitting the goals I can see what a leisurely pace I was doing them at before.

My gym buddy Rache is going great guns. She powers on the assault bike and sprint track, can actually do push ups and box jumps.

Thanks again to everyone at MG Activ for always being friendly, welcoming and encouraging. It really is a family.

Trying to reach the speed goals under MG’s encouraging eagle eye

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Legends of the Nepean Debbie O’Connor

By Noel Rowsell

D

e bb i e O’Connor is the CEO of ‘White River Design’ and also the creator of local business venture ‘The Creative Fringe’ - which is based in York Road, Penrith.

The Creative Fringe opened its doors on 9 April 2014 with over

100 guests all wanting to find out about this new and innovative coworking concept in the heart of Penrith.

The Creative Fringe is Western Sydney’s most dynamic co-working space, which was developed to provide the Penrith, Blue Mountains and Greater Western Sydney business community with a shared office space to co-work and collaborate with

some of Western Sydney’s leading entrepreneurs.

Debbie describes The Creative Fringe as a dynamically-engaging and energising space, which facilitates the creation of transformative ideas, forward-thinking innovations and awe-inspiring concepts.

“Behind every great person is a bunch of other people and we’re the (awesome) other people,” Debbie said.

Life began for Debbie in Nelspruit, South Africa, where she was born in 1973 to parents Huffy and Cherry Pott.

Her childhood playground would be the nearby Kruger National Park, populated by many of Africa’s most recognisable animals including Lions, Leopards, Rhinoceros and Elephants, among many others.

Debbie attended Uplands PS, before moving to Secondary Education at St Marys Diocesan School for Girls (DSG), a multi-racial Boarding School in Pretoria.

Debbie was a talented athlete at school, competing in the ‘1sts’ in Hockey, Tennis (Vice Captain) and Swimming, before a crippling injury

not only threatened her sporting career but life in general.

Partaking in a student challenge to pack as many students as possible into a Railway Carriage, Debbie suffered a broken back, broken ribs and a fractured femur when a laden top bunk (holding 10 students) collapsed onto her.

An initial diagnosis and x-rays failed to diagnose any injury and amazingly, Debbie was expected to not only continue her schooling but also pressured by her coach into going back to sport, in spite of being in extreme discomfort and pain.

After 3 months of constant pain, Debbie’s mother consulted an Orthopaedic Surgeon, who organised more x-rays and discovered the extent of Debbie’s injuries.

Debbie was able to return to each of her 3 sports but would not be able to play at the top level, dropping back into lower grades.

In 1991, Debbie went to the University of Stellenbosch (near Cape Town), where she would undertake a Bachelor of Fine Arts Majoring in Graphic Design and Photography in 1994.

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Debbie O’Connor was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Councillor Greg Davies.

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

She moved to London to work part-time (due to Visa restrictions) in Graphic Design and other odd jobs, constantly saving for extensive trips throughout Great Britain and Europe.

Debbie went on a trip to Scandanavia in 1997 and met an Aussie traveller David O’Connor, who lived in Penrith.

David returned to Australia but Debbie continued to travel and they conducted a long-distance romance, before Debbie finally chose Australia as a destination in 1998.

David proposed 10 months later and the couple would return to White River, South Africa for the next 18 months, marrying in the Pott family home - called Ezulwini (Close to Heaven) on 11th September 1999.

Debbie emigrated to Australia in 2000 and arrived in Sydney during the

euphoria and splendour of the Sydney 2000 Olympics.

The couple moved from the City to Glenmore Park in 2001 and, in 2002, Debbie resigned from her job as a Graphic Designer, registered ‘White River Design’ and also gave birth to son Joel.

When starting White River Design, Debbie realised as a foreigner she didn’t know anyone nor did she have any business connections in Australia.

Debbie attributes a lot of her business success to the support of the Western Sydney Business Centre, where she received invaluable advice and an introduction to the world of networking, which set her up on her business journey.

To help launch her business, Debbie created the Glenmore Park Business

Directory in 2002 and ran it for 8 years, before selling in 2010.

In 2005, daughter Jade was born and Debbie authored and published a fun book for children aged 2-6 called Andrew Potato Face, which encourages them to eat a healthy meal.

In 2010 Debbie moved her business out of home and into premises. This was a stressful and costly process.

However by 2013 she had outgrown that office and started looking for suitable space for her next business venture in Penrith. Frustratingly she ran into constant hurdles and said she was even told ‘she was too forwardthinking for Penrith’.

Finally, Debbie found a suitable location in York Road and subsequently opened ‘The Creative Fringe’

In 2014, The Creative Fringe was a Finalist in the “Champions of the West Awards’ and subsequently won.

Debbie has been heavily involved in local fund-raising initiatives for charities and has held the “Think Outside the Square” Blanket Challenge for the past 4 years, where people donate knitted 20cm x 20cm squares to make blankets for the homeless and those less fortunate.

The first year resulted in enough knitted squares being donated to complete 49 blankets and in 2020, the number rose to complete an astonishing 200 blankets, which are distributed through charities such as WestCare, Penrith Community Kitchen and Platform Youth Services.

“The people of Penrith and the Blue Mts have been amazing,” Debbie said.

Prior to the interruption from Covid-19, The Creative Fringe also hosted the Great Morning Tea, fundraised for the RSPCA, Pink Up Penrith and First Seeds (which involved people creating items for sale from unwanted denim skirts and raising $1,500 to help support young women in Warwick Farm).

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Nepean News 1 October 2020 Issue 287

22

local COLUMNIST

Why is my pet scratching?

T here are many reasons why pets become itchy. This week continues the discussion on everything that can make your pet itchy, scratchy and totally uncomfortable for both you and your pet.

Atopic dermatitis Atopy is a genetically predisposed allergic skin disease and is more commonly seen in breeds such as Staffordshire Bull Terriers and Labradors. This disease involves both a defect in the skin as a barrier and an exaggerated or allergic response to normal environmental substances. Treatment usually targets both of those areas.

If your dog has been diagnosed with Atopic dermatitis then it is likely that at some point you will have performed a diet trial to rule out allergy to a component of your dog’s food.

Unfortunately, there is no available reliable test to determine food allergy at this time.

Treatment options for atopic dermatitis involve targeting both the skin defect and the allergic reaction that occurs in the skin after exposure.

Improving the skin barrier – this involves treatments including fish oil (omega 3) supplements in the diet, applying topical oils such as Essential 6, bathing regularly in an antibacterial shampoo

and other local ant inflammatory treatments. Using these treatments can often be enough to keep your dog’s atopy under control especially if they are only seasonally allergic.

Reducing the allergic reaction: there are many medications to help reduce the allergic reaction:

PART 2

1. Antihistamines – these only target a very small part of the allergic reaction and are therefore only useful in the very early stages and often provide no relief at all.

2. Corticosteroids – very effective at reducing the itch but they have some long-term side effects especially if used continuously.

3. Cytopoint – a monthly (or even 2 monthly) injection – it is a very new treatment and has proven to be an effective treatment in some dogs. It can prove quite expensive in the long term if your pet has year-round allergies.

4. Apoquel – another very effective anti-itch medication – it is also very effective in the short term but can get expensive if year-round treatment is needed. There are also some potential side effects if used long term.

5. Immunotherapy – A new option now available at Greencross Vets Coreen Ave. We will cover this in-depth next week.

If your pet is itchy and you need help to find the source of the problem contact Greencross Vets Coreen Ave on (02) 4731 3055.

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

STAN WOULD LOVE A NICE QUIET HOME TO SETTLE INTO

Stan is still a little unsure at this stage, he likes to be patted but would be best suited to a home with a calm environment.

HCC 218 “STAN” DOMESTIC SHORTHAIR MALE 1 YEAR OLD $171.30 Adoption price includes, desexing, microchip, lifetime council registration and first vaccination.

R251000145.

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.

HANDSOME PERCY NEEDS A HOME

SWEET MAXINE NEEDS A LOVING HOME

Percy is still a little shy at this stage, we know that Percy has been an inside cat and has shared the family home with another cat, dog and young children. Percy would be best suited to a calm environment which will give him the time he needs to settle in. If you feel that you can offer Percy a caring home where he will get all the attention he needs please come to the shelter to meet him.

Maxine is a sweet young girl, she is still a little unsure at this stage so she will need a calm environment to help her settle in, Maxine has been an indoor cat so she will be best suited to a family that are able to let her relax inside with them. Maxine has lived with another cat and the family dog, she has also been around young children.

HCC 222 “PERCY” DOMESTIC SHORTHAIRED MALE DESEXED 5 YEARS OLD $107.60.

HCC 223 “MAXINE” DOMESTIC SHORTHAIRED FEMALE DESEXED18 MONTHS OLD $157.10

Adoption price includes, microchip, lifetime council registration and first vaccination. R251000145.

Adoption price includes, microchip, lifetime council registration and first vaccination. R251000145

AAB Holdings: Celebrating twenty years of success A

One organisation, multiple solutions

AB Holdings Pty Ltd is one of the top tier providers of end-to-end print communications, customised logistics and business supplies in Australia and other regions of the world.

The leveraging of the group’s combined capabilities is their blueprint for success.

Managed Solutions, Production (digital and offset printing, retail display, packaging and labelling) Services (promotional kitting) Logistics (warehousing, pick n’ pack, online traceability) and Technology (local area marketing, campaign management, web-2-print) all available to the client, managed under one roof, by one organisation.

A privately owned organisation with an anual revenue of more than $80 million, AAB Holdings was formed in the year 2000 when Woolworths Limited divested its printing and packaging businesses. Ever since they have been committed to leading through innovation, to building a sustainable future, capturing growth and delivering long-term value to their customers and shareholders alike.

“We also recognise the importance to explore new opportunities beyond our current businesses,” Mr Finkelde said.

That commitment is held by the Group’s CEO Wayne Finkelde and all 240 employees.

“These opportunities may take the form of acquisitions in businesses that further strengthen and complement our already diverse range of products and services.”

“When we no longer deliver value, we are no longer of value,” Mr Finkelde said.

The employees work across four divisions - as one united by a shared vision and common values.

“We know our diverse workforce is our greatest strength and makes us the dynamic and vibrant group of companies we are today,” Mr Finkelde said.

Our digital operation SOS in Alexandria.

Open 24 hours a day, 5 days a week, AAB Holdings services more than 3000 customers, produces over 2000 merchandising kits each week and has over 1000 pallet movements each week.

Group CEO Wayne Finkelde

Staff at Pegasus.

It’s a busy place!

Recently installed large format digital inkjet printer for signage and displays.

One of the largest short run book & educational printers in Australia

One of four large format offset presses at Pegasus.

Pegasus Pring Group Pegasus Print Group provide an unrivalled and fully integrated approach to design manufacturing, fulfilment and distribution of quality printed and print related services.

How great does Nepean News look? Pegasus is our chosen printer and the quality is always exceptional.

They have an extensive range of integrated services including digital and lithographic sheet feed print, large format printing, industrial design, labels and packaging and much, much more.

SOS Print & Media Award winning print services specialising in branded retail display and point-of-sale on demand production, custom online systems and logistics. One of the largest short run book and educational printers in Australia.

Service include IT custom platforms, campaign management, digital asset and content management, premedia, warehousing and local area marketing.

Pat and Susie from F&M Supplies.

Our digital operation SOS in Alexandria.

F&M Supplies An independent division of AAB Holdings that transitioned to enable the division to expand beyond traditional print related product.

Products include promotional merchandise, corporate apparel, branded products, retail fittings and fixtures, stationery, medical and hygiene supplies, hospitality supplies, cable and security ties.

AB Warehousing & Logistics An independent yet integral partner within the group, AB Warehousing & Logistics is a fully integrated 3PL solutions provider.

Services include third party warehousing, logistics management, fully racked and secure storage and local and international freight.

AAB Holdings sponsor, donate and offer in-kind help in the way of printing and merchandise to extend a helping hand to charity.

These charities include Jeans for Genes, Cancer Council, RASF, Westmead Children’s Hospital, Foodbank, which is the largest hunger-relief charity in the country, and Children’s Cancer Institute, where they help the institute with their goal of research, prevention and better treatment and ultimately a cure for childhood cancer.

F&M Supplies.

One of the largest short run book & educational printers in Australia

School Formal

27

G

uidelines for school formals and graduation ceremonies have been provided to school principals to assist with managing the one off events in a COVID safe way.

Minister for Education Sarah Mitchell said she was thrilled students would be able to enjoy the end year celebrations.

“Our students have done a fantastic job this year staying focused and working towards their final exams,” Ms Mitchell said.

“I urge people to follow the directions of their schools and venues and respect public health orders, particularly when planning after events.”

Formals and graduations can take place from November 12, the day after the last HSC written exam.

Ms Mitchell said it was important to reduce disruption to the final exams and it was great students could still celebrate once the exams had concluded.

“With just weeks to the start of the HSC exams, students can focus on their final studies knowing that there will be official opportunities to celebrate their schooling,” Ms Mitchell said.

“We are encouraging schools to use strategies that discourage spontaneous

crowding, including when arriving or leaving the event.”

“Students should restrict the number of guests they bring to graduation events, and schools are encouraged to live-stream these ceremonies for anyone not able to attend.”

The guidelines suggest mingling before and after events should be avoided, private transport options considered and existing restrictions on catering need to be adhered to.

Additionally, the guidelines ask schools to: • Reduce mingling and attendance where possible • Hold dancefloors outside or in well ventilated areas • Dancing with partners from outside the school community is allowed only if partners are from the same local community and have an established relationship and normally socialises with the student cohort • Ensure the capacity of the event does not exceed four square metres per attendee • Restrict tables to 10 people • Students to bring your own pens for yearbook signing • Follow and promote good hand hygiene practices

Shop 16, Memory Mall, 429 High St, Penrith Ph: 4789

0722

Mobile: 0404

942 487

Nepean News 1 October 2020 Issue 287

Formals and graduations guidelines

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Book online or call 4708

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PINK UP PENRITH

Nepean News 1 October 2020 Issue 287

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B

Breast cancer survivor’s

ecoming a nurse had never entered Lori Phegan’s mind. Neither had cancer – it didn’t run in her family and she checked her health regularly.

But at 47, Lori’s life took an unexpected turn when she found a lump in her left breast. Soon after the discovery in June 2019, she was diagnosed with a malignant tumour.

“The week in between receiving my diagnosis and having an initial consultation in Westmead Crown Princess Mary Cancer Centre was the worst week of my life,” Lori said. “I was shocked and scared, I didn’t know anything about cancer. I didn’t know if I was going to survive.

“After just one hour meeting with Dr Kavitha Kanesalingham in Westmead, I immediately felt relieved. She reassured me that treatment options are very progressive and I had great chances of recovery.”

After completing six sessions of chemotherapy, Lori underwent lumpectomy surgery in Mount Druitt Hospital in November 2019.

“I felt so grateful for all the support I received.

Doctors and nurses who worked with me were absolutely amazing,” Lori said.

“Usually when people find out you have cancer, they don’t know what to say except `I am sorry’.

“But I was done with being sad! I’ve always loved a good laugh so I appreciated when my surgeon – Dr James French turned out to have the greatest sense of humour. Things like that make such a huge difference for your journey.”

Lori finished her treatment with 17 sessions

Lori smiles with staff after a radiation session at Blacktown Hospital last year.

of targeted Herceptin therapy and 25 sessions of radiotherapy in Blacktown Hospital. In the midst of all this, one particular day stood out when she noticed her 50-year-old nurse wearing a “student nurse” badge.

“’Aren’t you too old to be a student, darling’? I asked the nurse. She laughed and said it’s never too late to learn something new. We chatted, and the nurse told me about taking a career change at the age of 40 and how she never looked back.

10% of EVERY Pink Up ad in the month of October is donated to the McGrath Foundation Sadly, most of us know someone that has been impacted by Breast Cancer, so Nepean News are once again getting on board to help raise some much needed funds. 10% of every ad that features in our October Pink Up Special will be donated to the McGrath Foundation / Pink Up Penrith. These funds will go towards Penrith receiving McGrath Foundation Breast Care nurses who offer loads of support for anyone local diagnosed with breast cancer.

To donate go to: www.fundraise.mcgrathfoundation.com.au/fundraisers/pinkup

on Your local news and views Join issuu.com/nepeannews

PINK UP PENRITH

such challenging treatment need care and I can give this care to them.

“Having a first-hand experience like mine gives you a totally different perspective. You really understand why patients are cranky, moody or even aggressive.

“Once you’ve been through it yourself, you’re in an empathetic state. Patients don’t need sympathy from health care workers. They need someone to come and say `I know how you’re feeling right now, but you will get through it’.”

Lori started her first nursing placement in August. She is now cancer-free, continues to run her successful online business and care for two children. In the future, she wants to specialise in oncology and ensure a better quality of life for those battling cancer, like she once was.

Nepean News 1 October 2020 Issue 287

inspiring journey to nursing

29

Lori Phegan has retrained to become a nurse after being inspired by those who cared for her through cancer treatment.

“This was a turning point. Before cancer, I never gave much thought about the depth of knowledge a nurse must have. Watching all these amazing nurses care for me made me realise how much we often take their hard work for granted.”

Just before the finish line of her cancer treatment, Lori enrolled in an 18-month TAFE course in nursing.

“Cancer made me re-evaluate everything in my life,” she said. “I realised that people going through

Lori during a chemotherapy session.

“I’m pleased to stand in support of all women and their families impacted by breast cancer.”

Tanya Davies MP Member for Mulgoa

Authorised by Tanya Davies MP, Shop 43 St Clair Shopping Centre, 155 Bennett Road, St Clair NSW 2759, using parliamentary entitlements

PINK UP PENRITH

Nepean News 1 October 2020 Issue 287

30

Pride and passion: Pink Up Penrith

F

or the month of October, Penrith has a very important job. It’s to turn the whole town PINK. McGrath Foundation selected Penrith in 2018 as the first metropolitan area in to head the Pink Up Your Town Campaign.

“It’s a great honour that the McGrath Foundation chose Penrith LGA to lead this fantastic cause. We have such a tight knit community here and I know we will band together to raise money for Breast Care Nurses that help individuals (and their families) affected by breast cancer,” said Penrith CBD Corporation CEO, Gai Hawthorn.

“We are so proud that through the efforts of the Penrith LGA Community two Breast Care nurses have been appointed to Nepean Hospital and we anticipate this year we will be able to maintain that special care provided to those diagnosed with Breast Cancer and their families.”

To achieve this mammoth initiative, a super committee consisting of business owners from Penrith and St Marys is dedicated to bring the town together to create and encourage local businesses, groups, schools to plan fundraising events to fund specialist McGrath Breast Care Nurses in communities across Australia.

The Committee hopes the entire town will turn pink and get on board for a worthy cause!

OR TO DONATE GO TO: w w w . f u n d r a i s e . mcgrathfoundation.com.au/ fundraisers/pinkuppenrith McGrath Breast Care Nurses are at the heart of the McGrath Foundation.

From the time of diagnosis, and throughout treatment, they inform, organise, empower and support people with breast cancer and their families.

No cancer treatment is without its challenges, but this is where a McGrath Breast Care Nurse can help.

They listen, guide and support people with breast cancer and their families every day through meaningful conversations, advice and quality care.

A McGrath Breast Care Nurse builds an important relationship with each person they support. They become a trusted, consistent and knowledgeable point of contact. As professional and qualified nurses they care for people with both early and metastatic breast cancer, across both public and private health services.

They are available for free and without a referral. It’s as simple as checking the website and finding your nearest nurse. www.mcgrathfoundation.com.au

Nepean Regional Security supports Pink Up Penrith • CCTV • Alarms • Guards • Patrols

Keeping business local

4732 5369 ML No. 405714685

Pink Up Penrith

HIGH TEA Spirit of our community Help support 16th October

Lakeside Restaurant ~ 11.30am to 2pm Special guest: Breast Cancer Survivor Linda Kemp $45 per ticket or $360 for a table of 8 RAFFLES DOOR PRIZES PHOTO WALL

LET’S GET PINK! Be part of the fabulous Pink Up Penrith initiative, aligned with the McGrath Foundation to help raise money to fund more breast cancer Nurses to support those in our community fighting breast cancer.

Call Penrith CBD Corp on 4722 5556 to secure tickets or email admin@penrithcbdcorp.com.au

PINK UP PENRITH

E

arly detection provides the best chance of survival October is Breast Cancer awareness month, here are some vital tips on early detection. Finding breast cancer early provides the best chance of surviving the disease.

Early detection It’s important for women of all ages to know what they can do to help find breast cancer early. Finding breast cancer early means there are more treatment options and the chances of survival are greatest.

This page provides information about breast awareness, breast changes, risk factors and mammography screening.

For information on breast cancer in men, visit Cancer Australia’s dedicated website, https://breastcancerinmen. canceraustralia.gov.au/ Breast awareness Breast awareness is important for women of all ages, even if you’re having regular mammograms.

You don’t need to be an expert or use a special technique to check your breasts. Take the time to get to know the normal look and feel of your breasts as part of everyday activities like showering, dressing, putting on body lotion or simply looking in the mirror. Knowing what is normal for

you will help you to detect any new breast or nipple changes.

Breast changes to look out for include: • a new lump or lumpiness, especially if it’s only in one breast • a change in the size or shape of the breast • a change to the nipple, such as crusting, ulcer, redness or inversion

• a nipple discharge that occurs without squeezing • a change in the skin of the breast such as redness or dimpling • an unusual pain that doesn’t go away.

Nine out of ten breast changes aren’t due to cancer, but it’s important to see a doctor to be sure. If you find a breast change that is unusual

for you, see your GP without delay.

Mammographic screening BreastScreen Australia is the national breast cancer screening program.

It invites women aged between 50 and 74 for a free mammogram every two years.

BreastScreen Australia aims to continue to reduce deaths from breast cancer through early detection of the disease.

For more details contact BreastScreen on 13 20 50 or visit www.cancerscreening.gov.au.

How can you reduce your chances of getting breast cancer?

As a woman, over the course of your lifetime there are many factors that can influence your risk of breast cancer. While some of the most important of these risk factors, such as being a woman, getting older or having a strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer and genetic factors, cannot be changed, you can still aim to reduce risk of breast cancer through making healthy lifestyle choices and other risk-reducing strategies.

You can also improve your chance of better outcomes by being breast aware and knowing what to do about finding breast cancer early.

Nepean News 1 October 2020 Issue 287

Early detection provides the best chance of survival

33

PINK UP PENRITH

Nepean News 1 October 2020 Issue 287

34

A message from Jane McGrath J ane McGrath is the late wife of Australian cricketing great, Glenn McGrath and the co-founder of the McGrath Foundation.

Her public experience with breast cancer and the impact of her own breast care nurse set her commitment and the mission for the Foundation: to ensure that every family experiencing breast cancer would have access to a breast care nurse no matter where they lived – for free. Every year in January, we celebrate Jane McGrath Day at the Pink Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).

“I was just 31 when first diagnosed with breast cancer.

Glenn and I were inspired to create the McGrath Foundation after my initial recovery, to help support other Australian women touched by breast cancer.

It wasn’t until I was rediagnosed, that I was fortunate enough to have access to a breast care nurse for the first time.

It was like having someone hold my hand through one of the worst nightmares of my life.

My breast care nurse allowed me to be Jane McGrath – the friend, the mother and the wife – not just the breast cancer patient. She was someone who could provide both Glenn and I with informed, sensible answers to the

many questions we had during the often complicated and confusing treatment process.

Through my experience with breast cancer, the mission for the McGrath Foundation became clear: to raise money to place breast care nurses in communities across Australia, as well as increase breast awareness in young people, particularly young women.

Breast cancer doesn’t care how old you are, where you live, whether you’re a career woman or a mother. Breast cancer is a disease that currently affects one in eight Australian women of all ages and backgrounds. Please help the McGrath Foundation support people across Australia.

Together, we can make a difference.”

PINK UP PENRITH

D

avid was just 49 years old when he was diagnosed with breast cancer in December 2016. He first noticed a lump in September that year, but thought it must have just been a bump from work. Like so many men, he thought it was nothing to worry about. So when the doctor gave him the diagnosis, he was in complete shock.

Only a week after receiving his own diagnosis, David got a call from his sister Kylie – she had just been diagnosed with breast cancer as well. David remembers his heart dropping at the news; it was a cruel twist of fate.

“Kylie’s diagnosis just made me even more determined to beat it. I knew I needed to be strong for her and I didn’t want her to get down about her own treatment. But I also had to be strong for mum – I can’t begin to imagine how hard it must be to have one kid go through breast cancer, let alone two.”

As a man diagnosed with breast cancer, David often found himself in peculiar situations with friends & family who didn’t understand that men could be diagnosed with the disease.

“I remember walking past an old mate on the street one day and he asked me what I had been up to. I told him I had breast cancer and he didn’t believe me! He took a little bit of convincing. I just don’t think that a lot of men really know that it’s not just women who can get breast cancer, men can get it too.”

David also recalled a particularly funny incident while he was in the hospital waiting room.

“I remember sitting in the hospital waiting to go in for my operation and the nurse came up to me

and was obviously so busy she hadn’t really looked at me yet. She asked me if I had been fitted for my special bra yet – then looked at me and went bright red! I said ‘not yet, but I hope to soon!’ I thought it was hilarious and she had a good laugh too. Things like that happen but you can’t help but see the funny side of it.”

With the support of his family and his McGrath Breast Care Nurse, David had a mastectomy and started treatment for his breast cancer. David went through 18 weeks of chemotherapy and 5 weeks of radiation therapy, with the radiation therapy taking its toll on his already fragile system.

“It was my lowest point of it all to be honest. I ended up in hospital for three days with a severe infection after my last week of chemo, I was that crook. I also had all sorts of burns on my chest from the radiation – it wasn’t very pretty!”

David had an incredible network of support around him to help him through his experience, especially his McGrath Breast Care Nurse who was always there to educate and empower him to confidently make decisions regarding his treatment.

“She (Ashlee Stirling, McGrath Breast Care Nurse) has been really, really good.

Any time I had a question about the treatment or whatever really – she was always there to help. It would have been so hard without her.’’

Almost three years after he was first diagnosed

with breast cancer, David has completed his treatment and is in a phase of monitoring and rehabilitation. He still has to attend regular checkups with various health professionals, but he’s now embracing the moment and making the most of everyday – and is very close to attaining his certificate III in Individual Support (Disability)!

“I’ve just been enjoying life to the fullest and appreciating my health. I’ve learned that you never know when that can be taken away from you. I’m just really thankful to be alive, going through cancer you see a lot of unfortunate people going through things a lot worse, it really makes you appreciate the little things. If you can get up in the morning – you’re doing well, so enjoy it!”

David’s story is just one of many and through his experience we’re encouraging everyone to have a conversation and connect with the men and boys in all our lives – let them know there is always someone there to listen.

“I want to help people with cancer, particularly men with cancer. I don’t think there’s enough support out there for men, it just seems us blokes don’t want to get together and talk. Men think that if they share their feelings they’re soft, I think it just shows how strong you truly are if you’re able to do that! From my own experience it was just great to be around other people going through a similar thing to me – you could talk to them and they’d understand.

It made such a difference.”

Proudly Supporting the

McGrath Foundation’s Pink Up Penrith month October 2020 Phone: 4722 8660 Email: penrith@parliament.nsw.gov.au Shop 23, Tattersalls Centre, 510-534 High St, Penrith Authorised by Stuart Ayres MP. ‘Funded using parliamentary entitlements’

Stuart Ayres MP Member for Penrith

Nepean News 1 October 2020 Issue 287

Breast cancer: men can get it too

35

Cnr Glebe Place & Richmond Road Kingswood NSW Ph: (02) 4722 8180 www.penrithgaels.com.au

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ENTERTAINMENT

T

hrough the generosity of community donors Penrith Conservatorium is offering 10 highly sought-after scholarships to young musicians in the Greater Western Sydney region.

The scholarships are awarded either as Full, covering the full cost of a 30-minute lesson, or Half, covering half the cost of a 30-minute lesson at Penrith Conservatorium.

Applicants do not have to be an existing student of the Conservatorium to apply but will need to have acquired at least Grade 3 in their selected instrument. All instrumentalists should be 22 years or under in 2021 to apply. Age restriction for vocalists is 25 years old or younger in 2021.

The audition panel will consider the applicant’s demonstration of technical ability, musicality, expression, phrasing, sensitivity and solo performance technique.

The audition panel will allocate scholarships based not only on individual performance, but the needs of the Conservatorium.

Successful Scholarship recipients will need to be available for a minimum of four performances throughout the year, including the Annual Conservatorium Concert.

Applicants will need to prepare two contrasting pieces of music that show their musical and technical abilities. The two pieces will be performed back to back with no break and each piece must not exceed four minutes in length. Two copies of the music must be presented to the panel at the

beginning of the audition. Candidates will need to arrange their own accompanist if required. If using a backing track, please contact Conservatorium management prior to audition date.

The Scholarships being awarded in 2021 are; FULL SCHOLARSHIPS - Richard Bonynge Scholarship (Piano Only) - Malcolm Borland Scholarship (Piano Only) - Penrith City Council Mayoral Scholarship (Penrith LGA residents) - Berger Piepers Emerging Talent Scholarship (Students aged 12 - 18) HALF SCHOLARSHIPS - Ars Musica Australis Scholarships - Penrith City Council Regional Talent Scholarship (Penrith LGA residents) - Jim Aitken Scholarship - Elizabeth Aitken Scholarship - 5 Star Training & Consulting Scholarship HOW TO APPLY All applications will need to be completed online at www.penrithconservatorium. com.au which includes a downloadable information pack. *In the event of possible restrictions due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, applicants will be required to submit a video recording of their audition to Conservatorium Management.

Nepean News 1 October 2020 Issue 287

2021 Penrith Conservatorium Scholarships are now open

37

Nepean News 1 October 2020 Issue 287

38

FINANCE AND REAL ESTATE MATTERS

Free money taps being turned down With Steve Beard Select Mortgage Broker

A

lot of employers receiving

JobKeeper wage subsidies will have had these payments cease at the end of September. Those employers who can show a 30 percent reduction in their turnover for July to September compared with July to September 2019 will still be able to receive the JobKeeper subsidy. The fortnightly payments will reduce from $1,500 to $1,200 if employees work more than 20 hours per week, or $750 if they work less than 20 hours per week.

JobSeeker payments for those without a job also decrease by $300 per fortnight from 25th of September. Singles with no dependants will now only receive $815.70 per fortnight.

With the stimulus taps being turned down, there will be less money for those who have the most financial stress.

Unemployment will rise as companies are deciding that they can no longer afford to keep all their employees. Some high-profile employers like Qantas and some major universities have already made announcements of large scale job losses.

Companies involved in the worst effected industries like travel, education and entertainment etc will reduce their staff numbers and hours worked, of course.

This will then be more widely reported in the

media and business and consumer confidence will deteriorate further. The amount of Australians’ savings rates have increased to historically high levels of around 25 percent of their incomes.

Traditionally we only save around 1 or 2 percent of our incomes. People are worried about their future and are saving the most they have probably ever done in their lives.

Interest rates paid by banks are also at the lowest level in history and are still falling. The CBA recently reduced their ongoing interest rate for their Netbank Saver account to a minuscule 0.05 percent.

So, if you have $10,000 invested in this account you will only receive $5 interest per year!

Smart vs Dumb Money These low bank deposit rates are similar (or lower) around most of the world. In an attempt to chase some better returns on their cash, a high number of people are investing (or perhaps gambling) in the stock markets for the first time. At the same time, Bloomberg reported that “some of the world’s wealthiest people have sold more than $3 billion of stakes in their major holdings since August”.

Home Loan Repayments Pauses The Australian Financial Review (AFR) reported that around one in five customers who opted to defer their home loan repayments are no longer responding to calls or emails from their bank. With 414,430 deferred home loans (worth $167 billion) as at the end of July, that means there are about 80,000 borrowers owing $30 billion who “have

SELECT MORTGAGE FINANCE

decided that their best financial strategy is to avoid having any sort of contact with their bankers”.

The AFR says that this strategy isn’t likely to last, as bankers say that regulators don’t want them to let borrowers think their loans can be rolled indefinitely. As the banks get more aggressive on following up on the deferred loans it won’t help the economy.

Asset manager PIMC said this week that in their stress tests Australian banks did not fare as well as others in the Asia Pacific region.

They noted that Australian non-performing loans had been increasing well before the COVID-19 outbreak and they didn’t think that loan deferrals, stimulus packages and lower interest rates will be “sufficient to adequately offset the negative asset quality impact” to our banks.

Ignoring your home loan lender is a very foolish strategy indeed. Always better to communicate with them even if you only have bad news. Lenders will try as much as they can to work with you to try and keep your loan going. By avoiding contact, lenders will start to assume the worst and start the legal process to repossess your home.

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.

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

CROSSWORD ACROSS 8 Zulu warriors (4) 9 Not second (5) 10 A distinct part (4) 11 Barbaric (6) 12 Moms of parents (8) 13 Russian grandmother (8) 15 Wager (6) 17 He battles blazes (7) 19 Repository (7) 22 Cigarettes (slang) (6) 24 Compare (8) 26 Harem (8) 28 A marine mollusk (6) 30 Rooster (4) 31 Exhilarate (5) 32 Decreases (4)

down 1 Genus of the dogfish (4) 2 Inform (8) 3 Anew (6) 4 TV show (7)

solution 17/9/20

5 Outsider (8) 6 Crown (6) 7 A flightless New Zealand bird (4) 14 Maxim (5) 16 Is not deceased (5) 18 Proven innocent (8) 20 Badgered (8) 21 Gymnast (7) 23 Knick-______ (6) 25 Hangman’s knots (6) 27 God of love (Greek mythology) (4) 29 A river in central Europe (4)

Nepean News 1 October 2020 Issue 287

40

NEPEAN HISTORY

“Old Buffer” George Thomas Bennett T

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

he name “Old Buffers” came to my attention several years ago when I was a friend of Albert “Bert” Evans from Kingswood.

He became a Life Member of the first St Marys Historical Society when I was Secretary. We would go out into the community to interview the old folks of the district who would reminisce, and we would record and write it all down for posterity. Bert came from the United Kingdom and became an amateur historian. He would go into Penrith Library and look up the Nepean Times on the microfiche and write down in his notebook anything that he thought would be interesting regarding our local history. He was very generous with his information and some of it became part of the Historical Society’s records during those early years. In May 2011 in the History Page, I wrote about the Buffers and their cricket matches. I am sure that the youth of the district at that time only saw them as “old farts” trying to play cricket then off to the Protestant Hall for dinner and a booze up.

But one hundred years ago, in 1920 there was a happy gathering at St Marys for the proposed recognition of George Bennett’s services to the fraternity. The Nepean Times article starts by referring to some of the University undergraduates and their antics in Sydney which seems to have “gotten up the noses” of the Old Buffers to the effect that it was said by the oldies, “from the time a lad goes into long pants, to parading the room nightly with a young hopeful on his arm, he is having the time of his life. Fun and hearty laughter is his common lot until the time when he is married he becomes gloomy and sighs during the rest of his life”. Apparently, that was all nonsense they said! “Because a man can be a hoary-headed old patriarch and still smile like a frivolous young girl, and he can be well on in life and yet be as merry as the youngster at a picnic.” As beyond a shadow of a doubt when the St Marys’ Old Buffers met at their famous rendezvous in Victoria Park to celebrate another reunion, the buoyancy of the old ‘uns and their conviviality were as effervescent as a lively ginger beer and it would have been a delight back then to witness the jolly good fellowship that dominated the whole proceedings. When Old George met Old Bill or Old Jim or Old Joe they talked about the days when they were mischievous young “shavers” in the town, where they tied jam-tins onto dogs’ tails or removed somebody’s signboard to distant fields, or played other pranks on law-abiding citizens – yes, even the Police, and they talked about early reunions recording with pride, their own or another Buffer’s prowess with bat and ball that would remind them of their dear departed friends and thoughts of good men gone. The Buffers were delighted to find that their genial hard-working Secretary and friend George Bennett was once more among them appearing little or none the worse for his illness that was serious enough to put him into Lewisham Hospital. Cases of illness (mostly the flu) among the Buffers was the cause of many of their reunions being cancelled or moved to a different month. They lamented that a Buffer reunion without George would be like “a home without a mother”. While he was in hospital and convalescing, his role of Secretary was carried out by a “young” old Buffer, George’s son Montague “Monty” Bennett, a worthy “chip of the old block.”

The 1920 reunion cricket match had a time limit due to the start of a 4 pm competition football match, but in any case the Buffers value of the reunion cricket matches was more for the fund of enjoyment

Michelle Latham

michelle@heavenlycelebrations.com.au

PH: 9623 6656 | MOBILE: 0418 250 242 186 Queen Street, St. Marys (Star Arcade)

 His wagon works in Queen Street in St Marys courtesy of the Bennett family.

and recreation than for any sporting results attached to it. The town band played good music during the afternoon and Joseph Armstein conveyed the visitors from the railway station at St Marys to the Park and return - free of charge. The banquet was chaired by Richard T Ball (M.L.A. & ex-minister for Works) and an ex-St Marys’ resident.

He spoke about the pleasure it gave him to respond to the request to preside as Chairman and believed it was 27 years since the Old Buffers started and 60 of them had passed on. He reminisced as a lad back to his early days in St Marys associated with some of the Buffers who were present, promising them it would be very interesting. He remembers the association with James and George Bennett when they would play some queer pranks as lads. At that time they had a function that was carried out religiously every New Year’s Eve when every person in St Marys had to sit up all night and watch his gate or sign and there was a time when it was almost impossible to protect men against the inroads that us lads were making against their signs and gates.

He remembers a policeman coming to the rescue on one occasion and assuring the people concerned that they have nothing to fear and advising them to go to bed as it would be alright in the morning. He remembered that the policeman at that time rode a horse with a shoe that clicked. Us lads divided up into two gangs where we would be able to tell where the policeman was by the click and needless to say we got one over on the policeman after his assurances that nothing would be disturbed, because he lost his own gate on that occasion.

He lamented the lost of many of the Buffers, but other Old Buffers he hoped were coming along and he was sure that those who were in the movement in the first place were glad to see so many present for the purpose of keeping up the reunion associated solely with St Marys.

He also hoped that they all would join in hoping that George would be restored before long to his usual health and strength but he understood that George recognised that he would have to give up his position as Secretary of the Buffers as he was leaving the district”. Songs were sung and toasts were given to George, the Buffers, the two Captains, Mr Armstein and the Chairman. George responded and thanked them for the testimonial, and he hoped to return for future reunions. The singing of the National Anthem concluded the proceedings. George died in Sydney in 1944. Photo of his wagon works in Queen Street in St Marys courtesy of the Bennett family. NOTE: Bert’s Buffer Book is for sale via email on our website.

Sources: Trove, BDM Online.

Contact Michelle for Pre-Planning & Pre-Paid Funerals 1300 HEVNLY (1300 438 659)

SPORT

By Noel Rowsell

T

he Nepean H o c k e y Association (NHA) is set to introduce ‘Little Flickers’ hockey, aimed for local children aged from 2-4 years.

As a part of the program, children participating will receive a Little Flickers T-Shirt and an 8-week program of Hockey fun, learning basic Hockey skills and playing fun games.

All games will be played from 5.30pm-6.30pm at the Nepean Hockey Association’s home ground at the UWS Kingswood Campus, starting 20th November and running to 12th February.

One of the children competing in the new program is Benson Brewin, who has a long Hockey lineage through his grandmother, mother and auntie, who have all been representative players.

Benson’s mother Mel is a Hockey representative for the Nepean Hockey Association, her mother (Benson’s grandmother) is a former State and Australian Masters representative and Aunt Vanessa is also a Nepean representative, in addition to being a State Junior and Australian Schoolgirl representative.

The cost per child for Little Flickers is $50 and players will need a mouthguard, shin pads and a Hockey stick (there are a limited number of sticks available for players who don’t own one).

To register, go to https://www. hockeynsw.com.au/events/69363/ The NHA also managed to run their 2020 competition in both Juniors and

Blaxland 3rd Division Ladies

Seniors during this unprecedented season and a special thanks must go to all members who carried out the Covid restrictions to play their sport each week.

In the Junior ranks, U8’s and U11’s were non-competitive (no winners), whilst the U13 Penrith Panthers defeated Emu Plains and in U16’s Blaxland Red defeated Emu Plains.

In the Seniors, the Penrith Panthers played off in all the Women’s divisions, winning 2nd division against Rooty Hill RSL, winning 1st Div against Emu Plains but losing 3rd Division to Blaxland.

In the Mens competition, A division was won by Penrith Panthers against Rooty Hill RSL and in B Division, Blacktown defeated Blaxland.

The coming months will see Indoor competitions commencing for both Juniors (14th October) and Seniors (12th October), along with the Summer Field competition on 15th October at the Hockey Centre UWS. To register and seek any answers to the Field competition go to summercomp@nepeanhockey.com. au and for Indoor competitions contact trknowles@primus.com. au or go to the Penrith Indoor FB page for more information www.nepeanhockey.com.au

Men’s A Division Winners the Penrith Panthers (10th Consecutive Premiership Victory)

Nepean News 1 October 2020 Issue 287

Nepean Hockey Association introduces ‘Little Flickers’ initiative

41

Benson & Mel Brewin

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Nepean News 1 October 2020 Issue 287

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SPORT

Local referee at the top of his game

By Noel Rowsell

A

ustralian Wo m e n ’s National Basketball League (WNBL) Referee Manager John Rearden (Penrith) is a great story of a young man following a chosen sporting career path from domestic competitions to the highest levels.

Currently engaged by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) as a Global Referee Instructor and Technical Delegate, in addition to his role with the WNBL, John started his basketball career in Penrith and quickly found his talents lay in refereeing, rather than playing.

His undoubted talent in officiating has since taken him successfully through all levels of the game and also to many countries throughout the world.

John said “My career started doing duty refereeing as a 16-17 year old on a Tuesday evening, playing with friends in Div 2 with the Penrith Basketball Association.”

“As part of the season’s schedule, each team had to supply score table and referees (for Duty Games), if there weren’t any paid referees available.”

“As I was a poor player, I became the referee, as all my team mates were too tired after the games,” John said.

“After a few months of officiating, I started to like it and put my hand up to do more games on other nights.”

“It was a great opportunity to have a social life and get paid for it and I regularly refereed three nights a week, which included juniors, men, women and mixed,’ John said.

“Some months after getting my accreditation as a State-recognised referee, I was approached by the Penrith Basketball Association to help with their representative program, to help their commitment to the Senior competitions.”

“I agreed and did a few more courses on officiating and slowly gained experience.”

“Within a year, I was asked to join the State Championships and State League competition and travel to other venues to officiate with other

Photos: Supplied

by John Rearden

Johnny Jacobs (The Netherlands), Nadine Crowley (Canada) and John Rearden (Australia) - FIBA Referee Instructors at U17 World Championships Thailand.

state-badged referees.”

“As a young official in the program, I was awarded my Level 1A badge and rewarded with a position on the Talented Official Program (TOP), which was run by John Payne - who was a very experienced FIBA and NBL referee working as Referee Development Officer at Basketball NSW.” “TOP provided additional support and training and I slowly progressed to my National Badge.”

“Whilst learning my craft, Basketball NSW selected me to referee at multiple Australian Junior National Championships throughout Australia, where I was appointed to many Gold Medal Games, including refereeing Internationally-ranked players such as Lauren Jackson and building long-lasting friendships both on and off the court.”

“I have been awarded the BNSW ‘Referee of the Year’ on 4 occasions and was appointed to officiate 2 Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL) games, which included famous Australian players such as Sandy Brondello, Robyn Maher, Michelle Timms, Annie La Fleur and Jackson - all Australian Olympians and invaluable contributors to Women’s Basketball in Australia.”

“In my roles with FIBA and

Basketball Australia, I have travelled to New Zealand, Greece, Jordan, Indonesia and Saudi Arabia to conduct International Referee Training, with both current and future international referees.” “ I was also selected to attend the U19 Women’s World Championships in Thailand and U17 Women’s World Championships in Belarus as Referee Instructor, where my role was to conduct pre-tournament education and training, to ensure alignment amongst the attending referees.”

“At those Championships, I also attended most games conducting game reviews / education sessions,” said John.

“I also attended Jakarta, Indonesia and Auckland NZ as Technical Delegate and my responsibilities were to ensure the FIBA competitions were prepared according to the standards for international basketball.”

“Current travel has been postponed as the majority of international events have been cancelled until 2021, so no plans are foreseen in the immediate future internationally,” said John.

“Locally, I am preparing for the upcoming WNBL competition as Referee Manager, which will involve a pre-competition clinic / education of all WNBL referees, across Australia,

who will be attending and completing fitness, physical and written tests.”

“Prior to the season starting, I will work with all stakeholders in an effort to provide the best quality of officiating, thereby ensuring the quality of the competition is at its finest.”

“I no longer work as an active official, having retired from on-court work 17 years back,” John said.

“The FIBA role is a global position and I am one of 12 instructors who travel the world, providing education, instruction and conduct pre-competition camps.”

“My most recent activity was the U19 Women’s Championships in Thailand, where the Australian U19 Women got Silver behind the USA.” “Other highlights (in my career) include the Commonwealth Games, as well as conducting training for current international referees within the Jordan and Saudi Arabian Federations.”

2019/2020 WNBL Referee Manager, Basketball Australia.

2019/current FIBA Technical Delegate 2018/current National Referee Instructor, Basketball Australia 2016/current Referee Instructor, FIBA Global 2010 Referee Technical Commissioner, Basketball Australia 2008/current Waratah League Referee Commissioner, Basketball NSW 2002/2005 Representative Coach, Penrith Basketball Association 2000 Referee, National Level

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By Noel Rowsell

T

hursday, 17 September marked the 20th Anniversary of the start of the Sydney 2000 Olympic Canoe Slalom Competition at Penrith Whitewater Stadium.

Olympic dreams came to life at the purpose-built “River of Dreams” during 17 – 20 September 2000, with the world’s attention focused on Sydney and Penrith.

Since 2000, the Penrith Olympic venue has continued to attract the world’s best athletes for training and competition, including the flagship International Canoe Federation (ICF) Australian Open held in February each year.

Securing Canoe Slalom for the Sydney Olympic Games in 2000 took an international effort and set the foundation for a thriving legacy for the sport and community in Penrith to this day.

“The International Canoe Federation is proud that the spirit of solidarity within the international community, the commitment of Penrith City Council to help build and sustain the venue and the support of the NSW Government enabled the inclusion of Canoe Slalom in the Sydney Games, with spectacular success,” said International Canoe Federation (ICF) President Jose Perurena.

“The benefits of this special collaboration can be seen with the growth of the sport in Australia, annual world class events and the promise of a sustained legacy into the future.”

Penrith Whitewater Stadium has contributed to the success of Australia’s top canoe slalom athletes including Jacquie Lawrence (Olympic Silver Medal 2008), Robin Bell (World Champion 2005 and Olympic Bronze 2008) and Jessica Fox, who was inspired by Sydney 2000 at the age of 6 to follow her Olympic dream.

Since then, Fox has won two Olympic medals, ten World Championship titles and is set for her third Olympic Games in Tokyo 2021.

“I was six when the Olympics were on in 2000 and I remember seeing some phenomenal athletes racing and on the top of that podium,” Jessica said.

“They came back year after year and I even got to race with some of them, including Stepanka Hilgertova (CZE, Sydney 2000 Gold Medallist Women’s K1) and France’s Tony Estanguet (the only whitewater canoeist to successfully defend his Olympic title, topping the podium in the C-1 category at all but one of his 4 Olympic Games and becoming the only French athlete in history to win gold in three separate editions).\ “The Sydney 2000 Games have inspired my dreams and Penrith became my home,” said Jessica.

Phil Jones CEO Paddle Australia, Matt Carroll CEO Australian Olympic Committee, Helen Brownlee Vice President Australian Olympic Committee, Melissa McIntosh Federal Member for Lindsay, Ross Fowler Penrith City Mayor, Lucien Delfour Australian Olympian

Brodie Crawford has represented Australia since 2013, with his best result a 2nd placing at the Australian Open (Penrith, NSW)

A Trio of Mayors - Former Penrith City Mayor Ross Fowler, Newly-elected Mayor Karen McKeown and 2000 Mayor John Bateman

“I hope I can inspire many more generations of paddlers to come as well.”

Sydney 2000 were the first Olympic Games for triple Olympian Robin Bell, who won the 2005 World Championships in Penrith, followed by a Bronze medal at the 2008 Beijing Games.

“The Sydney Games gave me a taste of the Olympics and it certainly kicked-off my Olympic paddling,” said Robin.

“Without a doubt Penrith Whitewater course is one of the best courses globally and has variety on the water for elite athletes,” said Bell, who relocated from Perth to Penrith to follow his Olympic dreams.

Sydney 2000 Olympian Danielle Woodward said “Penrith Whitewater Stadium is fantastic and is pivotal in the success canoe slalom has had.”

“Without the (Penrith) course, Australian Slalom Canoeing would not be the multi-medal winning sport it is today.”

The 1992 Olympic medallist, triple Olympian and Sydney 2000 competitor also remembers Sydney 2000 as a highlight of her paddling career that spanned three Olympic Games.

“I remember the Sydney Games so well and have such fond memories because it was a home Games.”

“It is difficult to describe the feeling of competing on home turf.” “I was so proud of Australia when I heard that the slalom venue was sold out every day of the competition.”

“This was for a sport that was not well known as an Aussie sport and people just wanted to be part of the Games.”

An Australian Government grant towards a permanent High-Performance facility at the Penrith Whitewater venue means that the future of Olympic paddling in Australia is looking bright.

Federal Member for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh MP welcomed the release of the first tranche of the $2.3 million Commonwealth investment in the Penrith Whitewater Stadium.

“This funding is one of my election commitments and I’m so pleased on this 20-year anniversary of the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games, that we are getting behind this iconic facility so it serves and inspires the next generation of Australian Olympians,” said Ms McIntosh.

“I’m passionate about encouraging healthy, active living in our community and look forward to our local kids, families and aspiring athletes to have even greater access to our local sporting and recreation facilities in the years to come.”

Councillor Ross Fowler said said the facility offers great opportunities for the local community.

“We want to see participation in sport and paddling grow and to see a centre that is a visitor destination, accessible by the whole community for active recreation, both on and off the water,” said Cr Fowler.

“The opportunities in and around the Penrith Lakes and the Whitewater Stadium are limitless.”

Kaylen Bassett was a finalist at senior level at the 2018 and 2019 Wildwater Canoeing World Championships.

Lucien Delfour is a French-Australian slalom canoeist who has competed at the international level since 2006, winning several medals at the Canoe Slalom World Cup in 2012, 2013 and 2015.

Photos: By Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

“The proposed larger project will involve the building of a second Whitewater channel and the development of the surrounding parklands as active spaces connecting to the Nepean River and Penrith.”

Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres could not attend the presentation but addressed attendees via video.

“The competition at Penrith Whitewater Stadium was a great success for sport and the Penrith community,” Mr Ayres said.

“No other city has leveraged the legacy of hosting the Games like Sydney.”

“The Sydney International Regatta Centre and Penrith Whitewater Stadium have continued to evolve over the last 20 years, providing a lasting legacy through the hosting of state, national and international competitions,” said Mr Ayres.

“This is in addition to providing facilities and programs for hundreds of thousands of visitors annually.”

Paddle Australia CEO Phil Jones spoke of working together to ensure the venue’s future.

“We (Paddle Australia) are very excited to be working on bringing new dreams to life and to continue working with Penrith City, the State and Federal governments and other agencies to ensure a vibrant future for this venue, the local community and the sport as a whole,” Mr Jones said.

“Canoe Slalom wasn’t on the initial program for Sydney 2000 and there was a lot of work done by the ICF, the Australian Canoe Federation and Penrith City Council to ensure that canoe slalom was reinstated into the Games,” said Mr Jones.

“Had it not been for that work in 2000, the commitment of many federations, companies and individuals, we wouldn’t have had the success we have enjoyed over the past 20 years, in Australia and internationally.”

“And with the new funding and the continuous support of everyone involved, we are very excited about the next 20 years and beyond,” Mr Jones said.

43 Nepean News 1 October 2020 Issue 287

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Nepean News 1 October 2020 Issue 287

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Tex’s tales with Dale ‘Tex’ Walker The Panthers completed the NRL season with a 42-0 thumping of the Bulldogs last weekend which sets up tomorrow night’s blockbuster semi final against The Roosters at Panther Stadium.

Of course the Roosters were blown off the park by South Sydney and will come to town with a completely different attitude.

“I was happy with the performance against the Dogs, especially keeping

them to zero.” said Coach Ivan Cleary.

“It was about getting finals ready and I think we did that, we are ready for tomorrow night.”

Penrith will welcome back Viliame Kikau, Api Koroisau and Stephen Crichton after they were rested last weekend.

The winner advances to week three and the losing side going into a sudden-death game in week two.

Quality teams that get flogged in the NRL usually bounce back a week later and that’s a big danger for the Panthers tomorrow night.

It was as if the Roosters were content with their ladder position going into the Bunnies game and already looking ahead to the semi finals.

South Sydney were near perfect and The Roosters just wanted the game to end.

I have no doubt they will show up and perform at a great level tomorrow night hence the anticipation for one outstanding game of football.

Panthers by 4.

The cricketing world was shocked to wake up to the passing of Australian great Dean Jones last Friday morning.

Dean Jones was an inspiration to many young cricketers in the 80’s and 90’s, I didn’t know too many kids who didn’t want to be like Dean Jones at that time.

Jones was working for Star Sports in India when it is understood he collapsed in his hotel room with reports that Brett Lee tried in vain to revive the 59 year old.

He had been a household voice in TV and Radio commentary for the past decade and was also a highly respected coach.

Tributes flowed as the news filtered through.

RIP D M Jones

Rival NRL clubs are trying to work out how and why the Panthers have been so consistent this season.

Club Chairman and ‘91 Grand Final winner Greg Alexander said he’s never seen a more happier unit than the 2020 Penrith Panthers.

“The fact that they continue to play for each other tells you there is something very special going on,” said Alexander.

“Everyone knows that they have a role to play, it’s completely a team performance from all players, staff and the fans as well.”

And Brandy wouldn’t be drawn into comparing the current side to the ‘91 Premiers.

“It’s such a long time ago and

the game has evolved so much,” he said.

“But the one similarity is how much they enjoy playing together, like ‘91 things just seem to click.”

Of course Alexander was instrumental at half back, very much like Nathan Cleary is doing today. The pair both have great kicking and passing games and are outstanding in play strategists.

Alexander had huge praise for Jarome Luai.

“He has taken his game to another level in the past six weeks and there’s no doubt that’s helped Nathan in his game,” he said.

There’s a lot of little intricacies with the team that forms a special bond.”

Was terrific company and in normal company could produce a Doosra, would bat at 4 between Ponting and Bevan in Australia’s best ever ODI team, a respected coach and advised the young to ‘walk out like a boss’ Will be missed - Kerry O’keeffe An absolute cricketing legend.

A true entertainer at the crease, whose flair with the bat and electric running between the wickets changed the game forever. A genuine good guy and a huge loss, our hearts go out to Dean’s family, friends, the Australian cricket family and his many fans - Scott Morrison Absolutely heartbreaking news about Dean Jones passing away.

A wonderful soul taken away too soon. Had the opportunity to play against him during my first tour in Asutralia. May his soul rest in peace and my condolences to his loved ones. - Sachin Tendulkar

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with Dale ‘Tex’ Walker Nathan Cleary is a certainty for Origin, Liam Martin has played himself into the 27 man squad, Isaah Yeo is close and so is Josh Mansour. The big question is, is Stephen Crichton ready and my answer is not yet.

I wrote a feature on Stephen earlier this year outlining him as the game’s next big star, stating that he will play Origin and for Australia, that’s pretty much a given. But I think he needs another year to strengthen not only his body but his game.

I know Ivan Cleary and his coaching staff were concerned when Waqa Blake showed him up two or three times in defence earlier in the year, and Blake intimidated the youngster at their latest outing.

Crichton is an absolute superstar who is close to being a complete footballer.

The upcoming finals series and a big preseason for the 2021 season will have him further developed and primed to be one of the first picked for the Blues in 2021.

It’s going to be a massive month of October for the Mountain Men and let’s hope there is so much more to sing and cheer about. Just in case you don’t know all the words when the lads sing it loud and proud the below will help you along; I KNOW WHO AND WHAT I AM I KNOW WHO AND WHAT I AM I’M A MIGHTY PANTHER MAN I’M A MIGHTY PANTHER MAN WE PLAY HARD AND WE PLAY FAST WE PLAY HARD AND WE PLAY FAST AIN’T NO WAY WE’RE COMING LAST AIN’T NO WAY WE’RE COMING LAST 2020 IS OUR YEAR 2020 IS OUR YEAR THAT’S WHEN YOU HEAR THE PANTHERS CHEER THAT’S WHEN YOU HEAR THE PANTHERS CHEER AND WHEN WE GO IN FOR A TRY AND WHEN WE GO IN FOR A TRY THAT’S WHEN YOU HEAR THE PANTHERS CRY THAT’S WHEN YOU HEAR THE PANTHERS CRY PANTHERS ARE YOU READY, READY? YES WE ARE READY, READY PANTHERS ARE YOU READY, READY? YES WE ARE READY, READY HU HA, HU HA WHOOP, THERE IT IS WHOOP, THERE IT IS WHOOP, THERE IT IS

When you are a success it will always be difficult to keep a squad together and James Tamou will leave the Panthers at season’s end.

Offered only a one year contract to stay at the base of the mountains, it’s totally understandable that Tamou took up a two year deal with the Tigers.

Tamou has four young children and staying in Australia to play NRL for as long as he can will provide family stability.

No doubt Tamou will be instrumental in getting the Tigers to the Top 8 in 2021, but first things first, The Panthers need his finals experience in the coming weeks.

Panthers Performance Coach Hayden Knowles will keep the squad as fresh as they can be heading into the NRL finals series which commences with a blockbuster against The Roosters this Friday night.

“Most of the hard work is done, now it’s just a matter of sustaining their strength and sharpness” said Knowles.

“For example if we need them to be strength tested

we would have them set to complete a PB for a one rep Power Clean.

“The energy is as good as ever and the whole group is ready for what lies ahead.”

On the subject of strength Nathan Cleary has come a long way in that department over the past 12 months.

Last year his Power Clean was at 100kgs today he hits the 130kg mark!!

The Wallabies have retained workhorse flanker Michael Hooper as skipper for the upcoming Bledisloe Cup and Rugby Championships.

The overall series will be contested over four matches, with the final two being held in Australia during the Rugby Championship.

The Bledisloe Cup opener will be held on Sunday, 11 October in Wellington whilst the second match will be played a week later at Eden Park in Auckland on Sunday, 18 October.

It will be a tough ask for incoming New Zealand born coach Dave Rennie.

The Wallabies have been on the decline for what seems like an eternity but the Bledisloe Cup will give Rennie the opportunity to unleash some future stars of the game.

The Championship fixtures for 2020 will have 12 Tests between Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and Argentina to be played over six consecutive weeks in Sydney, Brisbane and Newcastle.

Each weekend will be played as a double header, with the tournament kicking off on November 7 which includes the Wallabies and All Blacks at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane.

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Nepean News 1 3 October September 2020 2020 Issue Issue 287285

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Nepean News 1 October 2020 Issue 287

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It’s time to Pump Up The Panthers

By Panthers Media

T

he passion of Panthers members and fans has helped lift our club to new heights this season.

It’s time to take it to another level. Let’s Pump Up The Panthers.

As the Panthers head into the 2020 NRL Finals Series, we want to share your passion and pride with the team.

Please email your personal message of support and a photo in your Panthers gear to fanmail@panthers.com.au.

Whether you want to write a long message, or just a few words, our players can’t wait to hear from you.

All messages and photos will be posted up inside The Bubble for the players to read as they prepare for what will be a thrilling finale to a memorable season.

Stand Up. Flags Up. Fight On.

Coach’s Corner NRL Finals Preview

Panthers - The newly crowned Minor Premiers will head into the Finals on the back of 15 consecutive wins. Their first assignment is the back to back defending Premiers in the Sydney Roosters in a blockbuster tomorrow night. The questions which have been consistently raised around the Panthers credentials is the youth and lack of finals experience within the squad. The reality is that the Panthers are as exciting and talented as any team.

The key to winning this Premiership will be a focus and execution on the defensive side of the ball for this team.

Storm - Are the Rugby League version of the liquid man from the Terminator movie. Never defeat themselves and they are consistently challenging for Premierships. This year feels a little different, they seem to be nearing the end of the road and I am not sure they can win against the Panthers and the Roosters if those teams get rolling offensively.

The mission for the Storm will be to force their opponents to win in tight, grinding and low scoring games.

Eels - A hard read this team. Started fast, physical and relenting but have since gradually slid away and they do not look a team that can win the

Premiership. More recently they have missed Dylan Brown who brings a running game and aggressive attacking mentality to the team and he does his work in defence. The influence or lack of with Brown on deck has changed Mitchell Moses game and he is suddenly running across the field and wanting to finesse the ball. There are some huge question marks over this team. They will need to get back to the fast and aggressive style in order to be a chance.

Roosters - Finished the season conceding 60 points to the Rabbitohs. Have a roster full of stars, a coach who knows how to get it done in big matches and they are chasing a third consecutive Premiership. They run into the best young team in the competition who are full of confidence and are at home. The Roosters may have to take the long way around the mountain if they lose to the Panthers tomorrow, but nothing would surprise me with this champion team.

Raiders - Have not been able to gather any momentum this season with injuries to key players.

They will commence the Finals at home against a team who are no match for them if they bring their best game. The real challenge will commence

Brock Shepperd Wests Tigers SG Ball Coach Fifth and Last NRL Podcast b.shepperd@hotmail.com

the following week as they face the loser of the Panthers and Roosters match.

Rabbitohs - Have displayed some unbelievable form this past month and their performance last week against the Roosters was the best I have seen by any team this season, especially against that quality of opposition. I do have concerns as to whether they can win four straight games against Top 8 teams. But they run into the Knights who look a shadow of their best at the moment and with a win they will face the loser of the Eels and Storm match, a very winnable scenario on best form for the Rabbitohs. Time will tell...

Knights - Have sustained injuries, form slumps and are limping into the Finals on the back of a huge loss to the Titans. They are no chance of winning the Premiership. A Finals win would be a significant achievement for the club.

Sharks - Are the ugly duckling of this years Finals, they have gained entry despite not having beaten a Top 8 team yet this season. An incredible statistic that tells you they are in company that is significantly better than them. Four consecutive wins and a Premiership would be a miracle, they are massive outsiders to survive Week 1.

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Footy finals fever is fabulous!

 And then there were 8!

W

ell that was a 20 week season that we won’t forget in a hurry.

And not since the end of World War II have we encountered anything like we currently are. When the Coronavirus pandemic hit our shores in early March the only thing on our minds was getting through to the other side of it unscathed.

Rugby League was the last thing on anyone’s mind. Yet here we are, 18 weeks after the initial lockdown of the NRL about to face finals footy!! Wow! There was more than a lot of doubt that we’d get to this stage but thanks to Peter V’Landys and his team we’re here.

And better still, the mighty Penny Panthers have now won 15 games straight!

That’s weird to write let alone say out loud. “15 games straight!”

And this Friday for their reward they quite amazingly take on the premiers of the last two seasons, the Roosters, who were humbled 60-8 last week by the Rabbitohs.

 2020 tipping winner Toby Hughes

Other finals games this weekend are: Saturday 5.40pm the first elimination final between the Raiders and Sharks. Saturday night the Storm take on Parra in Brisbane. Then on Sunday the 2nd elimination final takes place at ANZ Stadium at 4.05pm where the Rabbitohs face the Knights.

Finals footy is an ‘upping of the ante”, the footy is faster and more intense, the weather is warmer, and for some, their last game of the year. BRING IT ON!!

See you at the game.

And another thing.

While the footy on field has been unpredictable at times trying to tip a winner is even harder. So a big congrats to my great mate and boss at Sinclair Hyundai Toby Hughes in taking out this year’s Nepean News celebrity tipping comp.

Fantastic achievement in trying circumstances to all tipsters.

MG (random Westie) OAM

Nepean News 1 October 2020 Issue 287

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