Nepean News 20 August 2020

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ISSUE 284

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By KeRRIE DAVIES

P

enrith C i t y C o u n c i l ’s annual Trees for Dad community tree planting event returns for its second year.

Create a living legacy for your dad and give back to nature on Sunday 6 September at Trinity Drive Reserve in Cambridge Gardens by registering for your 30-minute planting session at bushcare@penrith.city Penrith Council’s Bushcare team have implemented a COVID-19 safe plan to ensure all participants adhere to social distancing guidelines. The plan includes capping the 30-minute sessions with 20 participants, thoroughly disinfecting tools before and after use, and requesting all participants sign in for planting.

Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM said that Trees for Dad is a wonderful way for the community to remember and celebrate their dad.

“Planting a tree is such a simple gesture to honour your dad and can be a very positive and meaningful experience to share with family and friends on Father’s Day,” Cr Fowler said.

“This event is also an important opportunity for residents to learn about our local environment and help restore our endangered bushland by planting

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“Council’s Bushcare team is looking forward to another great day planting trees and celebrating our local dads and have created a safe environment for all participants to do so,” Cr Fowler continued.

Participants are encouraged to wear long trousers, a long-sleeved shirt, closed-toe shoes, a hat and sunscreen is also highly recommended.

To ensure there are enough trees for everyone to plant and so the Penrith Council Bushcare team can coordinate the 30-minute sessions, please register your attendance by emailing bushcare@penrith. city More information about the event and the event’s COVID-19 safety plan is available at penrith.city/ events

Nepean News 20 August 2020 Issue 284

Plant a tree for Dad

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Ph: 9833 1122 154 Queen Street, St Marys londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au Authorised by Prue Car MP. Funded using parliamentary entitlements.

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From the Editor’s Desk

Nepean News 20 August 2020 Issue 284

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

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By KeRRIE DAVIES

I

t is not unusual for me to receive 200 emails a day. When I sift through them all, it usually turns out that about a half of them are important, roughly a quarter are holidays or cruises which I’ve subscribed to and a bunch trying to sell me something I don’t want.

The remaining are usually the suspicious kind, trickery that is either trying to elicit my bank account details or get me to click on something malicious.

Even today, in the middle of Scam Awareness Week, I had an email from my long lost cousin in Nigeria who died leaving me rolls of gold, and some other person in a far away land who died a millionaire but had nobody to leave it to.

Of course, those scams are getting very old now and its usually the uneducated in under-developed countries who haven’t yet realised we are on to it.

But sadly there are other scammers who are very sophisticated and continuously reinvent ways to mask their deceit. And some get quite good at it, after all they are putting in the hard yards to learn how to fleece people about the same amount of time you spend earning an honest crust.

The reality is, as one scam becomes exposed, a hundred others are in the making. There is no such thing is being over-cautious any more. And a pandemic just provides these oxygen thieves with another layer of BS in which to build a credible sounding scam on the back of.

This week during Scam Awareness Week we are provided with a great opportunity to look at the scamwatch.gov.au website and learn ways to stay one step ahead.

If you’re not internet or social media savvy, get the kids or grandkids to print off lists of what to look out for, that way we can team up and keep their creepy hands at bay and away from other people’s money.

If you see a scam let us know: nepeannews@aol.com Stay safe.

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local news

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enrith City Council is conducting important vegetation management work along the riverbank on River Road, Emu Plains starting this month.

This vegetation management work is part of a three-year project which is being funded by the Australian Government under the Environment Restoration Fund.

The $150,000 ‘Keeping the Hawkesbury and Nepean Rivers Healthy’ project will see a schedule of work rollout over the next three years to rejuvenate and enhance the riverbank along River Road, Emu Plains.

The immediate vegetation management work includes: Removing and controlling exotic weeds, trees, and vines Planting appropriate native species (groundcover) to help stabilise the bank Creating a mown edge alongside the upper footpath to provide a safe and tidy streetscape for pedestrians and residents and discourage snake habitat Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM said keeping the river healthy is a key action in Council’s Our River Masterplan (2013) which was developed in consultation with the local community.

“During consultation for the Our River Masterplan the community told us that management of vegetation along the river corridor needed special attention. Thanks to this grant funding from the Australia Government, we are now able to address some of the issues they identified,” Cr Fowler said.

“Over the next few weeks Council’s bushland management team will be working along the riverbank on River Road to improve the health and biodiversity of the river, maintain bank stability, and improve safety and enhance views of the river for pedestrians and residents.”

“This project is part of Council’s ongoing program of work to revitalise the Nepean River and combined with the upcoming Regatta Park and Tench Reserve upgrades, will strengthen Penrith’s position as Western Sydney’s most liveable city,” Cr Fowler said.

If you would like to learn more about Council’s Our River Masterplan or Council’s Vegetation Management Plan head to Council’s website penrith.city/nepeanriver.

If you have any questions about the upcoming work please contact bushcare@penrith.city

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

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 20 August 2020 Issue 284

River vegetation management

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

local news

Penrith SES inwater operators establishing contact with the casualties Photos courtesy of Penrith State Emergency Service

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Penrith SES debrief

our men were rescued from the Nepean River last weekend after their four-wheel drive was swept into the waters as they attempted to cross the swollen river at Emu Plains.

About 7.00pm on Sunday 16 August 2020, officers from Nepean Police Area Command were told the driver of a Ford Ranger 4WD and three passengers drove around a locked gate on Russell Street, Emu Heights.

The driver of the 4WD managed to drive through two river crossings without any issues; but as he attempted to make a third crossing, the heavy flow

from recent rains of the Nepean River caused the vehicle to lose traction and was swept into the fastflowing waters.

All four men managed to climb out of the cabin and onto the roof of the vehicle, before seeking refuge on an island in the middle of the river.

One of the men managed to use a mobile phone to contact emergency services.

A large co-ordinated emergency response involving officers from Nepean Police Area Command, the Blue Mountains Rescue Squad, Fire and Rescue NSW, Ambulance Paramedics, Polair

and the SES managed to retrieve the men using SES rescue boats around 11.00pm.

All four men were checked by NSW ambulance officers before being cleared of any injuries.

A salvage operation was being conducted as we went to press to recover the 4WD from the river.

Nepean News 20 August 2020 Issue 284

Men rescued after vehicle swept into the Nepean River

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Nepean News 20 August 2020 Issue 284

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local news

75th Anniversary of Vp Day

By KeRRIE DAVIES

L

ast Saturday marked 75 years since the end of the Second World War triggered euphoric celebrations across NSW and dancing through the streets of Sydney.

Gathering restrictions sadly prevented a public Victory in the Pacific anniversary service, but members of City of Penrith RSL subBranch honoured the occasion with a members’ wreath laying ceremony.

Acting Minister for Veterans Geoff Lee said the sacrifice of our great service men and women will never be forgotten as we remember this major moment in our history.

“Victory in the Pacific (VP Day) is the day NSW began celebrating the end of a long campaign to fight for the freedom we cherish today,” Mr Lee said.

“We pause to reflect on the ultimate sacrifice paid by the men and women who served throughout the Pacific to defend our nation. On the home front, hundreds of thousands more provided essential services to support the war effort.”

Photos: Noel Rowsell

Photos: Noel Rowsell

Almost one million Australians served in the armed forces in the Second World War. More than 39,000 Australians gave their lives, more than 23,000 were wounded, and more

than 30,000 were taken prisoner of war.

The NSW Government has compiled a digital catalogue of stories and videos of Second World

War veterans and widows sharing their memories to ensure they are not forgotten.

“Everyone can share their stories, pictures and videos on social media for this special 75th anniversary tribute using the hashtag #VeteranStory75years,” Mr Lee said.

“NSW communities are also encouraged to jump online and use the digital catalogue to learn about our history and the legacy of our veterans and their families.”

The digital catalogue will be continually updated over the coming months at: www. warmemorialsregister.nsw.gov. au/75th-anniversary-stories VP Day events: www.veterans.nsw. gov.au/commemoration/wwii-75thanniversary/

local news

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his is a time to care.

For many people within the Penrith area living from day to day is a struggle, whether this is due to Domestic Violence or having no income. This pandemic of Covid -19 has merely exacerbated the difficulties that people are facing.

The Rotary Club of Penrith Valley has recognised that many people have no food, day to day necessities or even a home. With a grant from Penrith City Council under the Community Assistance Programme, The Rotary Club of Penrith Valley has come to their

assistance making up care packages to distribute, through Penrith Community Aid, for those most in need.

“As a club we saw a desperate need within the community as many people suffered, mostly through no fault of their own,” said President Jean Vranich. “It is hoped that our contribution will alleviate some of that suffering for them. Food and even basic needs such as cutlery, plates and cups, and toiletries have been included in the packs so that day to day living is just a little easier than before.”

The Rotary Club of Penrith Valley is

Nepean News 20 August 2020 Issue 284

Rotary extends a caring helping hand

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committed, as is Rotary everywhere, to helping those less fortunate be it with food, health or education.

“We care. Our local community is the focus of our concern at the moment.

While we do involve ourselves with projects overseas, we never lose focus of the community around us.” said President Jean.

“Should you, or someone you know, wish to help others through a caring organisation please feel free to contact us on 0410586437 or visit us on Facebook at Penrith Valley Rotary and see what we do.”

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local news

It takes a village to be a midwife

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he contribution and dedication of our nurses and midwives has been recognised with two finalists in the NSW Health Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards 2020.

Nominees Cindy Partridge (Midwife of the Year) and Pia Lambert (Nurse of the Year) showed a commitment to providing compassionate patient care.

For Cindy, a life-changing experience receiving care from Nepean Hospital’s caseload midwifery program helped kick-start a career in health. Now, years later, that same care and compassion is something Cindy delivers daily as part of the same program.

Shocked at the nomination, Cindy is incredibly humbled to be listed as finalist and credits the tireless work of the team around her.

“I value my colleagues for the passion they display for midwifery every day – it definitely takes a village to be a midwife.”

Cindy’s greatest blessing is being able to care for mothers and babies who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander.

“I am so motivated to provide compassionate continuity of care as they show resilience and put their trust

in me to give cultural and clinically safe care for their families. This trust and relationship fuels my passion for closing the gap,” says Cindy.

This year, in line with COVID-19 safety measures, the Awards ceremony will be virtual. Nurses, midwives, their

families and the broader community will be able to watch the Award show, which will be streamed on November 26.

There are more than 53,000 nurses and midwives working in NSW Health hospitals and health services,

with over 3,000 employed within the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District.

For more information on the 2020 Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards go to www.health.nsw.gov.au/ nursing/enma/Pages/default.aspx.

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By KeRRIE DAVIES

F

or Werrington couple Rhylea Rigby and Corey Hale, the birth of their beautiful little girl Madilyn Paige was a very exciting event, but of course a bit different to the usual.

Entering the world two weeks ago, Madilyn was blissfully unaware of the changed circumstances she’d been born into.

We spoke with Rhylea about the extra precautions, anxieties and changes when giving birth during these unprecedented times.

“It has been an amazing experience but yes, a very different one to what we would have expected prior to this. Madilyn’s first view of the world was of people wearing masks,” she said.

“Her grandparents couldn’t come to the hospital to see her, so that was hard.”

Father of the new baby, Corey was able to be part of the actual birth but Rhylea said he had to be careful not to leave the hospital because once out he couldn’t get back in.

Rhylea also discussed how different it was to be pregnant during a pandemic.

“A restaurant we went to ended up being named as a place visited by a positive case, so Corey and I both had to isolate for two weeks. I didn’t want to go out any more,” Rhylea said.

“I’m still cautious, we haven’t really been anywhere much. We are just enjoying being parents.”

Western Sydney University researchers are

calling on women who are pregnant, or who have given birth since March 2020, to participate in the ‘Birth in the time of COVID-19’ study.

Professor Hannah Dahlen from the University’s School of Nursing and Midwifery is leading a team of national and international researchers on the new study.

Professor Dahlen said, during this difficult time, women are understandably worried about potentially exposing themselves, or their babies, to the virus.

“So what we are seeing are more women avoiding healthcare settings; missing check-ups and appointments; and opting to give birth at home, rather than in hospital,” said Professor Dahlen.

“We are also seeing the huge amount of stress this is putting on women and their families.”

Australian women who are pregnant, or who have given birth since March 2020, are invited to complete an online survey – which will ask them to reflect on their experiences of being pregnant or having a baby and parenting during the pandemic.

Since the survey opened, more than 3000 have shared their experiences – however Professor Dahlen said there is gap in the number of women from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds who have completed the survey.

“The responses to the survey so far have been amazing, but we would like to ensure that we are canvassing the experiences of as many women in Australia as possible,” said Professor Dahlen.

“At the moment, we are really interested in hearing from CALD women and, in particular, women from migrant and refugee backgrounds.

“From these women, we’d like to hear about the different models of care that they have received during their pregnancy, and how they are accessing support services during the pandemic, when traditional face-to-face services may be reduced.

“We’d also like to know whether they have had an issues with accessing translators, and how isolation and separation from their extended family has affected them.”

Nepean News 20 August 2020 Issue 284

Having a baby during a pandemic

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Nepean News 20 August 2020 Issue 284

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local news

MG I really need your help mate

By KeRRIE DAVIES

A

few months ago when we

were all in isolation, it was a period that brought many new things to people’s lives.

Some got lots of work done around the house, some had a much needed rest and some found an opportunity to get some clarity on their future goals.

Others became closer to their kids, many got to know their partner better and some realised for the first time they didn’t actually really like any of the people in their house.

And some people, like me, got the unwanted gift of a few extra kilos!

Ten of them, to be exact.

To be fair they have been slowly taking up residence on me long before COVID; but once the restrictions hit, the bouncers that were keeping them at bay had also gone into hibernation so by the time we all started to emerge the extra kilos had squatters rights and were refusing to budge.

Endless nights with the hubby playing Euchre, drinking wine and eating cheese platters (fun as they were) took their toll.

Then, no sooner had I faced the reality that I’d whacked so many on, another reality hit me - no matter what I do I can’t seem to shift them.

And all I’ve done since is spend more endless nights laying on the lounge making diet and exercise plans that will never see the light of day even though dawn continues to break.

It was with this in mind when another realisation dawned on me.

One of my best mates is the fittest person in the universe! And not only that, he owns a gym. What on earth was I waiting for?

Enter Mark Geyer.

When we caught up at the Pioneer for lunch last week I greeted him

with a plea. “Mg I really need your help mate.” As is typical of the great man, he replied, “anything, what do you need? I’m there.” And so it was decided that I will surrender myself to him for the next twelve weeks to see if he can whip me back into shape.

It’s worth noting I made my pledge with wine in hand.

But pledge I have, to lose 10 kilos in 12 weeks. That takes me to the turn of December to get myself a rockin’ body.

I’m also going to document my progress in Nepean News, so if anybody is interested in my progress, they can follow it in these pages over the next six editions.

As soon as the ink was dry on our verbal agreement, I thought to myself, “what have I done?” MG has no idea what a challenge he has before him.

The truth is I eat garbage and I’m pretty lazy when it comes to fitness.

I’ll find any excuse not to go. I’m the type who’ll eat a delicate salad and then wash it down with a chocolate mudcake. I’m going to be trouble.

I sort of started today, and I use the term “started” loosely. Basically the items I can tick off as having done this week are: - Signed up to MG Activ - Bought myself my first ever set of active wear - Wore them to gym and watched half a class - Did ten minutes on a treadmill - Posed for a photo op with MG I’ve got a long way to go. Wish me luck! Or rather, wish MG luck.

I’m back again on Friday and something tells me I won’t get away with ten minutes on the treadmill this time, but he’s a great believer and unwavering in his support. Big thanks MG for taking me on - if we can somehow pull this off it will be a miracle!

local news He spent 2 weeks in the Kalahari Desert living with local tribespeople, who have a great respect for the Australian Aboriginal as ‘the First People’.

‘Yanama budyari gamada’ - patience, humility, respect for each other is Lex’s mantra and it is how he is living his life and encouraging others to do the same.

Lex will shortly begin a new Radio Segment on 89.1 Radio Blue Mts and each show will run for 2 hours.

‘Green Gown Awards’ Established in 2004, the Green Gown Awards recognise the exceptional sustainability initiatives being undertaken by universities and colleges. With sustainability moving up the agenda, the Awards have become established as the most prestigious recognition of best practice within the further and higher education sector.

By Noel Rowsell

L

exodious Dadd is a Darug man, born to an Aboriginal father and a mother of English / Irish extraction.

As such, he stands across two distinct cultures but is working tirelessly to bridge the gap, working in the community at large educating and informing on Aboriginal beliefs, rituals, customs and behaviour.

A noted Storyteller, Woodcarver, Bush Tucker & Medicine Man and a performer of Welcoming & Smoking Ceremonies, Lex is in demand for his knowledge of his people and his ability to communicate the significance of Australia’s First People.

Born into white society in 1971 in Wollongong, Lex lived as a child in Eden on the far South Coast of NSW as a reluctant student of traditional Primary and High School education but an avid collector of stories, experiences and life in the Australian bush and with Aboriginal Elders.

Leaving school at the earliest possible age of 14 years and 9 months, Lex became an apprentice Chef and would work in that role for the next 25 years with companies such as Penfolds and Lindemans.

Lex would frequently hitchhike to work from Pambula to Eden, often spending the night in the Bush because it was too late to return home to Pambula and also extremely difficult to pick up a ride at night.

In the morning, he would hitchhike to Pambula, shower and change clothes and hitchhike back to Eden for his next shift.

Suffering Dermatitis because of his work, Lex was put on an array of pills to help alleviate the problem but eventually took a radical step in his own treatment, heading into the Bush and going ‘cold turkey’ on prescription medicine.

His own natural bushcraft not only solved his Dermatitis problem but his experiences and his natural talent as a Woodcarver, Musician

Photos: Supplied by Lex Dadd.

and Storyteller would see him drawn back into mainstream society - but now as a teacher and guide.

Lex currently works in a teaching and cultural role in conjunction with Macquarie University, Newcastle University and the NSW National Parks and was the ‘Elder in Residence’ for a time at Macquarie Uni, also co-authoring many different papers with both Universities.

Macquarie Uni won a ‘Green Gown Award’ in 2019 and was short-listed Internationally in 2020.

Lex has a range of lifelike puppets (including ‘Uncle Budjiwung’), which help him tell his stories, he sings in language, plays the ukelele and has released 9 films on Aboriginal culture.

More children are turning to mental health counselling

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ids Helpline’s latest data confirms that COVID-19 lockdown and containment measures, along with other impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, has impacted on the mental health of Australian children and young people.

Kids Helpline reported mental health and wellbeing counselling experienced an overall increase of 24% nationally since the pandemic hit. Nationally, the increased use of technology has seen demand for WebChat counselling increase by 62% over the same period, March to July 2019.

Mental health issues weigh heavily on the minds of young people connecting to Kids Helpline. The service has revealed the top 5 national concerns across the pandemic as: 1. Mental health concerns 2. Emotional wellbeing 3. Family relationship issues 4. Suicide-related concerns 5. Friend/peer relationships According to yourtown Head of Advocacy and Research Kathryn Mandla, while Kids Helpline is very glad to be there to answer cries for help, the service was also dedicated to providing support and information as early intervention measures to reduce vulnerability to harm before it happened.

“Mental health is a national issue, the importance of a national service like Kids Helpline offering virtual counselling services anytime for any reason by phone, online web counselling or email cannot be

underestimated. We provide easy access for young adults seeking independent resources on our website.

Kids Helpline offers tools and techniques, which young people can readily engage in to help boost their psychological well-being,” Ms Mandla said.

If young people want to talk to someone they can call Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800, e-mail or web counselling www.kidshelpline.com.au – Facebook: @kidshelpline, Insta @kidshelplineau, Twitter @ KidsHelplineAU.

Nepean News 20 August 2020 Issue 284

Indigenous storyteller is bridging two worlds

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local news

Former US President Obama & Mark Nielsen Snr

By Noel Rowsell

L

ower Blue Mountains resident Mark Nielsen Snr has recently retired from the NSW Police Force, after serving for 41 years.

Mark spent 40 of those years in the Highway Patrol, setting a record which is undoubtedly going to be hard to surpass.

Born in 1959 in Bankstown, Mark

Nepean News 20 August 2020 Issue 284

Mr RBT calls time on a stellar career

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Mark Nielsen Snr, 2 Police colleagues, Prince Harry and Meaghan Markle

started his working life in Pathology / Chemistry but after being retrenched, joined the Police Force as a 19-year old and was stationed at Bankstown.

Just 18 months later, after a brief experience with the Highway Patrol, Mark applied and was accepted in spite of his young age and relative inexperience.

Over the next 40 years, Mark would work at North Sydney, Fivedock, Penrith, Springwood, Campbelltown, Wetherill Park, Macquarie Fields and

Former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton & Mark Nielsen Snr

Fairfield, rising to the rank of Sergeant in 1995 and Senior Sergeant in 2007.

Mark recalls the introduction of RBT and the dramatic effect it had in reducing a rapidly escalating fatality rate on NSW roads.

He said “The deaths on roads in the Blue Mountains were horrendous.”

Mark’s leadership with Random Breath Testing teams became legendary among his colleagues and peers, earning him the respect of all and the nickname ‘Mr RBT’.

He recalls one significant day on the Northern Road where his team conducted 2,513 tests in a single day, which resulted in 6 drivers charged with ‘Drive with Prescribed Concentration of Alcohol (PCA)’, 5 with Drug offences and a further 70 charged with a wide variety of infringements.

“We had an amazing morning, with the random flow of traffic allowing us to test every single driver which passed the RBT check-point in the first 3 hours,” said Mark.

As a senior and highly respected member of the Highway Patrol, Mark also worked for 23 years in the ‘Dignitary Protection’ group and was privileged to meet many of the world’s most influential people,

including Pope Benedict at World Youth Day 2008, former US President George W. Bush Jnr at Apec in 2007, US Secretary’s of State Condoleezza Rice, John Kerry and Mike Pompeo, former US President Barack Obama, former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, US Secretary of Treasury Jack Lew, US Secretary of Defence Jim Mattis, Her Majesty The Queen, HRH Prince Charles and then-TRH Prince Harry and Meaghan Markle.

Among the most memorable of Mark’s encounters was with former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger at the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

“He was a remarkable man,” said Mark.

“His appeal as a speaker was extraordinary and he is undoubtedly one of the most knowledgeable people I have ever met.”

Mark is not planning to go into a quiet retirement, looking to spend more time in fund-raising alongside his youngest son Mark Nielsen Jnr. A somewhat miracle baby who not only survived a premature birth but also a full blue blood transfusion, Mark Jnr has already established an amazing resume in fund-raising for local charities and is sure to keep his father active in community service.

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Nepean News 20 August 2020 Issue 284

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local news

Helping to train 15 Seeing Eye Dogs puppies Nepean residents help Petbarn Penrith Coreen Avenue smash its 2020 Seeing Eye Dogs fundraising appeal

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hanks to the Nepean community’s generous contribution to the Petbarn Foundation’s Seeing Eye Dogs Appeal, Petbarn has raised an incredible $775,000 in July. A record amount in the appeal’s 7th year - surpassing its $500,000 fundraising target by $275,000 – and since 2014 have now been able to train 85 Seeing Eye Dogs and change 85 Australian lives for the better.

Local Nepean customers helped Petbarn Penrith Coreen Avenue raise over $7249 towards the annual appeal that will help cover the costs of breeding, training and caring for Seeing Eye Dogs.

Thanks to the local community, 15 Seeing Eye Dogs puppies will be able to commence their two-year training process and enable Australians who are blind or have low vision to have greater

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independence, with the best of companions by their side.

Petbarn Penrith Coreen Avenue Store Manager, Edward O’Neill said, “We’re extremely grateful to everybody that donated what they could to this great cause. We know 2020 has been a challenging year for so many people, yet our customers continue to amaze us with their generosity.

“The money raised will go towards helping Australians who are blind or have low vision retain their independence and mobility. Thanks to our local Nepean customers, 15 Seeing Eye Dogs puppies will be trained to provide companionship and special assistance to people who need it most.”

Vision Australia Seeing Eye Dogs General Manager, Graeme Craig, says, “Our partnership with

The G Spot

ews flash: restrictions and isolation rules don’t stop those who are planning armed robberies and hold ups.

Now I am no rocket scientist or brain surgeon, however I have been very blessed (not) to have worked in many a club and pub over the past 25 years in security and I lurve to observe the human creature in its most natural habitat - the club!

The thing that I find the most hilarious (well not hilarious - let’s just say hypocritical) is that the hotel manager is usually the first to scream “Why Me?”Almost like a love song gone wrong.

Now who am I, I am just a mere security officer that had the wonderful job of clearing the drunks out (who all love me). On closing time the bar staff are winding down and chucking wet rags at each other, the manager is in the office because he has been there all day dealing with the crap and needs to update Facebook. The safe door is wide open because that’s where the night takings are going, the registers are being counted (usually at the bar) and the beer-filled mats are being hosed down out the back car park or loading dock with the fire door chocked open with an

the Petbarn Foundation is integral to raising funds so that even more Seeing Eye Dogs pups can complete the extensive training they require.

“We’re overwhelmed with how much has been raised for this year’s appeal. Through the amazing efforts of Petbarn/City Farmers customers, we can continue to support even more Australians who are blind or have low vision.

“It takes a lot of expertise, time, love, patience and funding to raise these special dogs that will one day provide the gift of independence. For the right person, these highly trained dogs help them move confidently and navigate obstacles with much more reliability and safety.”

For more information on the initiative, please visit: www.petbarn.com.au/seda/

With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security

empty keg. The band is packing up and have chocked open the main glass doors to pack their cars.

Oh and don’t forget camera 16 has been playing up for a while and that just happens to be over the safe area, but that’s on the to-do list, gotta go to the board or the manager has been busy buying meat raffles, right? Dear dear dear folks – I’ve seen it time and time again and I just shake my head.

I seriously reckon they should place a neon sign on the main highway and say “get it while it’s hot” because all the crap I have just said above has just given the baddies a good chance to hold up your premises!

Okay, so what can we do to stop our mates at Work Cover asking for a free lunch at your joint for the next 15 weeks while they investigate the ‘why ya didn’t do it and how ya coulda stopped’ it scenario?

Batten down the hatches captains, because your closes should be tighter than a fishes bum (sorry but love that saying). Controlled access points, security, security, security and secured doors and staff escorted from club to car. Control is the answer my friends, if the baddies see control and the fact that their hold-up

attempt may be hindered or observed, they will move onto the next place. It is as simple as that! They try the element of surprise, always be one step ahead of them!

Let’s just pretend that you’re in a horror movie and that the blob is going to get in the access points, that’s how you should treat your club or pub on closing time; shut the doors, lock the doors. Also recommended is a decent security service, if your security officer is on his mobile or chatting up the staff it’s time for a change kids - security have a really important role of checking toilets, securing doors and controlling access points whilst the club is placed in locked down. A security dude chatting up the last single lady in the club is not the look you need - wouldn’t happen on my watch or in my company - period!

So there you have it kids, control, security, close the access points and be tighter than a fishes bum, which I might add I have never seen or experienced.

(Tick).

PS. Please be aware that no fish were injured during the writing of this column.

KEEPING BUSINESS LOCAL

6 months free

back to base monitoring* ML No. 405714685

www.nepeanregionalsecurity.com.au

* new connections

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estern Sydney locals will be spoilt for choice when it comes to buying flowers, after a proud Wiradjuri woman and St Marys resident launched her own floristry business dedicated to supporting local growers.

21-year-old Brooke Clifton-Gomez completed a Certificate III in Floristry at TAFE NSW Nepean and fell in love with the creative elements of assembling bouquets and arranging flowers. She went on to study the Certificate IV in Floristry at TAFE NSW Richmond and opened her business, Brooklyn’s Blooms, almost two years ago.

What started as a hobby making flowers for friends has now blossomed into a thriving home-based studio in St Marys where the young entrepreneur has had multiple jobs including weddings and vowel renewal ceremonies. Brooke has been selected to represent TAFE NSW in the prestigious National WorldSkills Floristry Competition next year.

“I never thought I’d be this busy so soon after launching my business but there is a big demand for florists in Western Sydney, particularly for special occasions or delivery of last-minute bouquets,” Brooke said.

“With flower imports on hold during the COVID-19 pandemic, I’ve made an effort to support smaller local flower growers and am making conscious changes to my bouquet designs to incorporate Australian native flora,” Brooke said.

With around 7,800 florists predicted to be employed by 2024 and sales on flowers spiking as Australians use alternate ways to connect in the age of social distancing, there has never been a better time to study floristry at TAFE NSW.

“The hands-on, practical skills I’ve learnt in the Certificate IV in Floristry, combined with the knowledge teachers bring to each class, has set me up for success in the industry,” Brooke said.

The rise of e-commerce and social media marketing has also allowed Brooklyn’s Blooms to thrive, with most of Brooke’s customers enquiring through Instagram. According to the 2019 Skills Forecast report, online sales of flowers have grown over the past five years at an annual rate of 6.4 per cent.

TAFE NSW Floristry teacher, David Berger, said Brooke was a testament to the quality of training TAFE NSW provides in preparing students for a career in the industry while they are still studying.

“Brooke is proof that the floristry courses at TAFE NSW equip students with the practical skills and experience they need to launch their own business as budding florists,” Mr Berger said.

To find out more about studying floristry at TAFE NSW, visit www.tafensw.edu.au/courses/floristrycourses, or call 131 601.

New irrigation for Ridge Park, Oxley Park

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he grass will always be greener at Ridge Park in Oxley Park following the installation of a new $140,000 automatic irrigation system in May. The new irrigation system was installed just in time for the winter sports season to ensure the popular Rugby League and Cricket field was in good quality condition for upcoming matches.

The upgrade was funded through the NSW Government’s 2018 Community Building Partnership Program after a successful application from the Colyton Colts Junior Rugby League Club, supported by Penrith Council and Member for Londonderry, Ms Prue Car MP. Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM said the new irrigation system ensures Ridge Park will continue to be presented as a premier sporting facility in Penrith.

“This important upgrade will give our local sporting groups a quality surface to train and play on and will allow us to host games at a facility we can all be proud of,” Cr Fowler said.

Member for Londonderry and Shadow Minister for Education, Ms Prue Car MP was instrumental in the application for funding and said the upgrade is a win for the Colyton and Oxley Park community.

“I am thrilled to have helped deliver this upgrade to Ridge Park, which

(L to R) Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM, Member for Londonderry Pru Car and members of the Colyton Colts Caine Carroll, Wayne Bartell and Scott Thompson at Ridge Park.

will improve the fields for the Colyton Colts and the wider community,” Ms Car said.

Colyton Colts Junior Rugby League Club Secretary Caine Carroll said the upgrade to Ridge Park Reserve is a great result for associated sporting

clubs.

“As a club we’re very excited to see Ridge Park become safer and more functional as a result of this upgrade, and we’re very proud to have played a role in improving this facility for sporting clubs to use for years to

come,” Mr Carroll said.

For more information on this project and other park and playground upgrades please visit: https://www. penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/facilitiesrecreation/outdoor-recreation/sportand-recreation-strategy

Nepean News 20 August 2020 Issue 284

21-year-old local florist is blooming marvellous

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Legends of the Nepean Barbara Mitchell OAM

By Noel Rowsell

Barbara Mitchell’s popular nomination as a Legend of the Nepean attracted additional support from members of Nepean Rotary and Inner Wheel.

Born in Belfield, NSW in 1952, Barbara attended St Michaels PS in Belfield and St Patrick’s Girl’s HS in Wynyard, before later attending Business College in Wynyard.

Barbara started her working career in a Secretarial role, marrying former husband Peter in 1970 and bringing up three children - Julia, Jason (deceased) and Amanda.

Barbara married current husband Cliff in 1990 and the couple have a combined extended family of 4 children and 6 grandchildren.

She worked in a variety of part-time roles whilst rearing the children, then became a student Nurse in 1981 at the West Metropolitan Group School

Julie (daughter), Barbara, Amanda (daughter)

of Nursing, attending lectures at Westmead and seconded to Windsor District Hospital and Westmead District Hospital.

Barbara became a Registered Nurse (RN) in 1984 and worked in the Gynecology Ward at Westmead Hospital.

She moved to study Midwifery in 1985-86 at Blacktown District Hospital, then moved back to Westmead in 1987 as an RN in the Operating Theatre, working there until 1998.

Late in her term at Westmead (1996-98), Barbara was trained as an RN First Assistant in the Cardiac Area, heavily involved in all aspects including pre-Op discussions with patients, assisting surgeons during operations then following up with the patients post-operation.

In 1998, Barbara moved to a Clinical role in the Operating Theatre and would remain in that role until her retirement in 2012.

Operating Theatre on the ship Jibon Tari in Bangladesh (Dr Hasan, Dr Danny, Barbara scrubbed in the background.

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Barbara Mitchell OAM was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Liz Foster.

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

The Grandchildren. Photos supplied by Barbara Mitchell

Barbara first met Dr Hasan Sarwar at Nepean Hospital and discovered he travelled to Bangladesh during his annual leave every year to work as a Plastic Surgeon with sufferers of cleft lips and cleft palates in the country.

In 2006, Dr Sarwar floated the idea of a group of doctors and nurses accompanying him to Bangladesh the following year and that journey would become a yearly sabbatical for Barbara and a range of other doctors and nurses over the ensuing 12 years, with the project known as ‘Aussi Bangla Smile’ https://www.acnc.gov.au/chari ty/0dc9e72cb445f13c76a4d5f03807d e6d The initial team in 2007 was Dr Hasan (Plastic Surgeon), Dr Steve Copper (Anaeasthetist), Angela Brady and Fadia (Anaesthetic Nurses), Judy Munday (Recovery Nurse), Frances and Barbara Mitchell (Clinical Nurses).

The teams grew to 11 per trip the following year and up to 30 people have volunteered over the 12 years.

The surgical teams consisted of Plastic Surgeons, Anaesthetists and experienced Theatre Nurses, who all paid their own expenses every year.

“We would begin work in Dakar for the first few days of each trip, then board the ship Jibon Tari (Boat of Life) and travelled along the many different river channels to reach outlying communities,” said Barbara.

“Some children had never seen a white person in their lives.”

A regular day would see the team up at 6am, in Theatre at 8am through to 9.30-11.00pm for one week, then travelling to a new location the following day, then starting the procedure all over again at the next clinic for a further week.

Supporters of the trips each year have included Johnson & Johnson, who have committed invaluable surgical equipment, including an estimated

The 2014 Surgical Team (Dr Hasan Sarwar front, Dr Danny Briggs Anaeasthetist far right with beard)

$15,000 of surgical sutures in one year.

David and Kerry Rickards (DAK Foundation https://dak.org.au/who-weare/) have also been strong supporters, as have Nepean Rotary, Inner Wheel and Probus groups.

In 2014, Barbara was invited to do a presentation on Bangla Smile at the Rotary International Conference in Sydney and regularly works with Nepean Rotary on fund-raising initiatives for her charity projects.

Barbara said “Every year we’ve purchased equipment to take with us to Bangladesh, which has included (among a host of Surgical Equipment) Suction Equipment, Monitoring Equipment and an Ultrasound Machine, whilst one Anaesthetist donated a CO2 Monitor.

Whilst performing life-changing surgery on the Bangladesh population, the main goal is to demonstrate how surgical teams should work together in all aspects and ensure a transfer of skills to local medical personnel,

enabling the locals to provide the essential surgical procedures without a reliance on international support.

In 2013, a Nurses Training Unit started at Mela Hospital in Jessore and fund-raising in Australia took on a bigger significance, with the team raising $9,000 at a Trivia Night which was paid directly to the local nurses to encourage them to stay in their roles.

Each of the Bangladesh nurses is rotated through all aspects of their roles in the surgical Nursing process.

Barbara has made 12 trips to Bangladesh and 1 trip to the Solomon Islands as a member of respective surgical teams, all at her own expense.

Barbara is also heavily involved in Days for Girls - https://www. daysforgirls.org/australia which is educating young women in Third World countries on feminine hygiene and thus enabling them to stay in school.

The highly successful program supplies essential kits and has

reached out to Bangladesh, Vietnam, the Solomon Islands, Napal, Kenya, Uganda, India, Syria, Fiji, Bali, Mozambique and even to the Australian Northern Territory and NZ. Barbara has little down time, also previously working with Aussie Hero Quilts, cooking at Mama Lana’s on occasion and now making Covid masks for her extended family, some of whom work in medical practices.

Unfortunately, Barbara has suffered more than her share of misfortune in her family life, including the death of her son Jason at Christmas 1997.

Five of the six grandchildren have all lost their dads, including Amanda’s husband in 2003 after an 18-month battle with Melanoma, leaving behind a 3 month old child.

Julia’s husband died in in San Diego in Christmas 2011 from tonsil cancer, just 9 months after being diagnosed.

Barbara and Cliff cared for both girls after their respective losses and stayed with Julia and her boys in the US for 8 months to help get them back to Australia.

“My girls are the most beautiful strong women,” said Barbara.

Covid-19 has put a stop to the international visits of the Australian surgical teams but Barbara is ready to go, as soon as the Covid crisis has reached a manageable level or a vaccine has been developed.

Barbara Mitchell at work in Bangladesh

Nepean News 20 August 2020 Issue 284

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local news

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Balance At Work

etting a goal without a plan to measure your progress is a serious problem. The best goals are always SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Resourced and Timeframed.

Here’s my favourite SMART goal that worked, from then US President John F Kennedy: “I believe that this nation should commit itself to achieving the goal, before this decade is out, of landing a man on the moon and returning him safely to the earth.”

If you choose to use SMART goals, you can achieve great things too!

Here are my five steps that will guarantee your SMART goals work for you: 1. Break it down What needs to be done to move you closer to your goal?

Say you have a goal to increase your business revenue, then some options to do that may be to increase prices, improve sales volume or introduce more high-value products or services.

For each option(s) you choose, list the tasks so you and your team can start to work on right away. To improve sales volume, for example, you might list things like improving marketing, make more sales calls or find new markets 2. Look for the links When you break down your goals to a list of tasks, the result may seem overwhelming. Take a closer look, and the natural links between tasks will become more obvious.

Having a SMART goal to keep you on track ensures all your tasks leading somewhere, rather than simply giving the illusion of progress.

3. Allocate responsibility Once you’ve decided what needs to be done, then it’s time to decide ‘by whom’ or your goal is not SMART. Until you know who is accountable for every single task on your list, your goal setting exercise is unlikely to be successful.

4. Keep track As part of this process, a natural progression

With Susan Rochester

will become obvious for most of the tasks. You will be able to see that for B to happen, A has to be completed, and you can schedule them accordingly.

Other tasks will be repeated daily, weekly or monthly. Work out now what system you’ll use to keep track of them all. The choice of system is up to you. The only rule is to keep track outside your head.

5. When all else fails, work backwards!

SMART goals are all about starting with the end in mind.

If you’re not sure where to start, try imagining that you’ve already reached your goal. Imagine the last action you would take before you achieve your SMART goal and write that down.

No need to overthink it. You don’t even need to believe these steps are possible. You are simply working your way back to where you are today so you can get SMART about your goal.

When you’re feeling stuck, try a new approach.

And if you’d like some help to ‘get SMART’ about your goals, give me a call!

Get in touch for a free consultation Call

0448 306 180

or email susanr@balanceatwork.com.au www.balanceatwork.com.au

How much sugar are you hiding in your trolley?

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e’ve all felt the stress of busy work lives and extracurricular activities, which can sometimes lead to oral health falling by the wayside.

But busy days don’t have to mean poor dietary choices.

The Australian Dental Association (ADA) NSW is asking us all to take a closer look at our supermarket purchases – and ask ourselves ‘How much sugar is hiding in your trolley?’

Westmead Hospital dental officer Dr Michelle McNab believes limiting sugar intake while maintaining good oral hygiene is the best combination to keep your teeth healthier for longer.

The average Australian consumes around 14 teaspoons of sugar per day.

We want to aim for no more than 6 teaspoons (24 grams) a day for adults and children.

“The mouth is the gateway to the body,” Dr McNab said.

“Maintaining a healthy mouth means you can eat well and maintain proper nutrition, smile, and speak without pain and embarrassment.

“Many oral conditions are so preventable. By making small changes to our diet, lifestyle, and oral hygiene habits, we can improve our oral health and lower the risk.”

Eliminating sugar from your diet is hard, but there are some small changes you can make to maintain dental hygiene.

“Tap water will always be the best choice for your teeth. But if you

Westmead Dental Health week telehealth services. Dr Ilana Fisher (Clinical Analyst Oral Health)

struggle to choose water as your drink, start by choosing lower sugar or sugar-free options,” Dr McNab said.

“To add flavour to water, you could try adding some fruit, cucumber, or mint. While there is still some acidity and sugar found in fruitinfused water, it is far less than you would find in store-bought soft drinks, energy drinks, cordials, or fruit juice.”

Look at the nutrition labels on your food and drinks and aim for products with less than 10 grams of sugar per 100 grams. If there’s more than 15 grams of sugar per 100 grams then see if there is a healthier alternative.

“Chewing sugar-free gum after a snack or meal can also stimulate

saliva, which can help to neutralise the acid in your mouth,” Dr McNab said.

Beyond limiting sugar consumption, Dr McNab has some tips for maintaining good dental hygiene: • Brushing – Brush twice a day for two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste • Flossing – Floss (or use an interdental brush) once a day to remove plaque from between your teeth.

• Say ‘Hello!’ to your dentist – Aim to visit your dentist every 6-12 months to keep on top of your dental health The Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) Oral Health

Team is currently offering remote ‘teledentistry’ appointments.

This allows patients to be provided with treatment options over the phone, including organising a prescription for antibiotics or pain relief sent straight to your local pharmacy.

“Teledentrisry was set up as a way to continue to provide dental care and treatment, despite the COVID-19 pandemic,” Dr McNab said.

“If you are suspected of having or have been diagnosed with COVID-19, and have a dental problem, you must call your dentist first to talk about your options.”

For more information on public dental services, visit health.nsw.gov. au/oralhealth.

Nepean News 20 August 2020 Issue 284

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local news

The benefits of wearing a mask An opinion piece from the Deputy Chief Medical Officer Professor Michael Kidd

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he nature of Australia’s COVID-19 pandemic has changed in Victoria and New South Wales, with outbreaks of community transmission now occurring – and the wearing of masks is playing a significant role in helping to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

Wearing masks is an important additional measure to help combat COVID-19.

It is vital, however, people do not stop doing all the other things they were doing to stop COVID-19 from spreading.

Physical distancing is still the most effective way we have to stop COVID-19 from spreading – even among people wearing masks. And the wearing of a mask doesn’t mean you can stop practising good hand hygiene.

The wearing of masks is now either required or recommended in Victoria (depending on where you live) because of the higher rates of coronavirus community transmission in that state. This measure will help to keep individuals, the members of their families and other members of the community safe from COVID-19.

New South Wales residents, especially those in areas where outbreaks have occurred, are

encouraged to wear face masks, in particular in situations where physical distancing is not possible.

A mask can help to prevent the person wearing it from contracting COVID-19, and stop someone else from becoming infected.

If a person shows signs of COVID-19 (which include fever, a cough, a sore throat, or shortness of breath) and has to leave their home to be tested, a mask will reduce the likelihood of that person spreading the virus, if indeed they are infected.

It is also increasingly apparent that many people who contract the coronavirus only have mild symptoms – or even no symptoms at all. These people will not know if they

are transmitting COVID-19 to others – something which can occur in a variety of ways, including by a person who is in close proximity.

The wearing of a mask can help to stop an asymptomatic person’s respiratory droplets spreading the virus to another person.

This is why all aged care workers across Victoria are now required to wear face masks, in both residential care and home support care, when in the presence of residents.

For all the benefits a mask can provide in certain circumstances, there are challenges associated with some people wearing them.

For many people, wearing a mask may seem odd or uncomfortable the

first time it is worn. Please be assured that people rapidly become used to wearing a mask when outside their homes, just as millions and millions of people have in countries all around the world where mask use is now mandatory.

For a mask to be effective, it needs to be properly fitted, covering a person’s mouth and nose. The person wearing it also needs to avoid the temptation to touch the mask while it is being worn. Before someone puts on a mask, and after taking a mask off, they should wash or sanitise their hands.

Single-use masks can generally be worn for up to four hours before they have to be replaced – and such masks should be disposed of properly in a bin.

Cloth masks made of 3 layers of cotton can be reused, but must be thoroughly washed and dried – at least daily.

In circumstances when there is high community transmission of the coronavirus, masks play an important role.

But they should never be seen as a reason not to do all the other things we should all be doing to fight this coronavirus – including physical distancing and practising good hygiene.

I apologise: statement from Gladys Berejiklian

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he NSW Government would like to thank Commissioner Bret Walker SC and his team for their work on the Special Commission of Inquiry into the Ruby Princess.

The NSW Government extends its heartfelt apology to anyone who experienced any additional hurt, stress and trauma due to the mistakes made by NSW Health.

NSW Health has acted immediately to address the failures identified by Mr Walker to ensure the errors are not repeated.

The NSW Government will work closely with the Commonwealth to adopt all recommendations made by Mr Walker.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the report identified a number of concerning mistakes.

“Over the weekend I reviewed the Report of the Special Commission of Inquiry into the Ruby Princess, and it is clear mistakes were made by NSW Health and others,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“I recognise the hurt and suffering these mistakes caused, and I apologise for that.

“These issues occurred during an extraordinary time of great uncertainty, and as we navigate this

pandemic we will continue to learn from mistakes and where we could have done better.

“We have learned from the Ruby Princess and the public can have confidence we will avoid such a situation occurring again.”

Mr Walker’s report found a number of mistakes were made by public health officials but he also noted: “They were diligent, and properly

organised. There are no ‘systemic’ failures to address. Put simply, despite the best efforts of all, some serious mistakes were made.”

Ms Berejiklian said given the ongoing pandemic, she expected the recommendations relating to NSW to be implemented as soon as possible, and work to begin immediately with the Federal Government on the other recommendations.

local news

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yra and Jarrod are school leavers who just want a job. They are not quite sure what industry they want to get into or the type of work that interests them. That’s why they joined Afford’s SLES (School Leaver Employment Support) program in Mt Druitt; to explore job opportunities that suit their abilities.

Afford’s (Australian Foundation for Disability) SLES (School Leaver Employment Support) program equips school leavers with disability to adapt to work life. Throughout the two-year program, trainers organise visits to businesses across a range of industries, including hospitality, medical and retail.

The SLES program offers a supportive and encouraging environment for trainees to explore their interests, as well as extend their knowledge and skills through further study and work experience.

Work experience opportunities in a COVIDclimate have been hard to come by, particularly for young job seekers living with disability.

Tayla is a trainer based at Afford’s Mt Druitt SLES site. She has been working with Jarrod and Myra to identify and progress their strengths and skills to help them succeed in the workforce.

Tayla reached out to her extensive network of business contacts to find work experience opportunities for the young trainees.

She reached out to Belinda, the store manager at Salvation Army charity store in Minchinbury.

Belinda was all too happy to have extra hands on deck to tackle the increased supply and demand for pre-loved goods.

Jarrod and Myra participated in a workplace induction before getting straight into work.

Jarrod learned about the importance of

Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) procedures in the workplace. He helped drivers to load and unload heavy items, such as furniture. He transported items from the delivery bay into the store using a trolley, minding the OHS systems.

He developed reasoning skills to make judgements about the weight of items for transport.

His duties at the Salvo’s store made him understand

that physical activities at work require attention for the safety of everyone in the workplace.

Myra had the task of sorting through clothes and donated items. With an influx of donations, Myra certainly had her work cut out for her, but she approached her duties methodically.

The Salvos depend heavily on the support of volunteers to manage the items available in their stores. Myra’s help to sort, price and display clothes and other items was invaluable for the Minchinbury store.

With household budgets expected to tighten in the aftermath of COVID-19, Jarrod and Myra’s work experience with the Salvation Army has enhanced their knowledge of workplace expectations, safety, productivity and skill.

Their work experience will positively impact the local community. By assisting with deliveries and donation sorting, the Salvos store now has more items on display, ready for purchase. It has also freed up the time of staff like Belinda, to manage and accept more donations. As a result, more people in need in the community have access to affordable goods.

Afford is a registered charity and has been operating in Australia for 68 years, providing a range of disability supports to thousands of people every day.

As one of Australia’s longest-serving not-forprofit disability organisations, Afford goes above and beyond traditional service offerings to adapt to new operating environments to support individuals achieve their goals for work, home and life under the NDIS. For more information visit www.afford.com.au or call 1300 233 673.

TAFE NSW Kingswood open their virtual doors to career advisors

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igh schools across the Penrith region have welcomed an innovative virtual event that will equip local career advisors, teachers, and principals with the most up-to-date advice about school-based and post-HSC options at TAFE NSW. The online TAFE NSW Career Advisor Day will combat the travel and event restrictions that COVID-19 has presented meaning that hundreds of career influencers from across the state will come together virtually on 20 August.

TAFE NSW Regional General Manager Michael Cullen said that online access has seen registrations double compared to the face-to-face events in 2019 and that the pandemic is not debilitating the flow of critical information to school leavers.

“COVID-19 has presented unprecedented challenges to school students and it’s crucial to facilitate access to information about how they can access world-class skills training.

“While university may be a viable option for some, it’s important that vocational education and training is considered a ‘plan A’ for school leavers to pursue careers in areas that they are passionate about,” Mr Cullen said.

The virtual event will focus on forecasted employment opportunities, courses, university pathways, and support services.

According to the Australian Government’s Job Outlook, there will be a demand in industries where employment has grown strongly in recent years including health care and social assistance, professional, scientific and technical services, education and training and construction.

Mr Cullen said that Australia’s largest training provider is committed to ensuring that the pathway for students from high school into, and out of,

vocational education and university is as easy as possible.

“School students need access to better, and easier to navigate, educational pathways and a wider range of options when it comes to their post-school education – whether that’s university, TAFE, private training providers, or all three.

“The education sector has a role to play in

making sure no matter where students are in life, their eyes are opened up to new career directions and can pursue the option which best suits them” Mr Cullen said.

Career advisors and counsellors can register for the TAFE NSW virtual Career Advisor Day by visiting tafensw.edu.au/careeradvisor or calling 131 601.

Nepean News 20 August 2020 Issue 284

Afford sles trainees support the community and get work ready

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Nepean News 20 August 2020 Issue 284

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New police join the force

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he NSW Police Force welcomed 197 new probationary constables at the NSW Police Academy last Friday 14 August 2020 at a restricted ceremony, to comply with COVID-19 restrictions.

The 125 men and 72 women of Class 342 will undertake 12 months of ‘on-the-job’ training and will also complete the Associate Degree in Policing Practice with Charles Sturt University before being confirmed to the rank of constable.

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Minister for Police and Emergency Services, David Elliott, joined Police Commissioner Michael Fuller to welcome the new recruits to the Force.

“Frontline police officers have played an unprecedented role in protecting the community, putting their lives on the line to keep us safe every day,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“The NSW Government has committed to recruiting more police officers and supporting those officers in their role of protecting the community.

“Congratulations to the newly attested police officers who graduated and will now embark on important and

rewarding careers.”

Commissioner Fuller said the latest intake of probationary constables will provide a fresh boost to police resources as the state faces the pandemic threat of COVID-19.

“Class 342 recruits attest in extraordinary times. They have already shown resilience and determination in making it to this stage, and these qualities will serve them well as they face the challenges that lay ahead,” Commissioner Fuller said.

“COVID-19 restrictions do not allow me to welcome these new recruits with the full ceremony of a normal attestation, but that should not detract from the achievements of these officers who swear their oath of office.”

Education and Training Commander, Assistant Commissioner Peter Barrie congratulated the new recruits on reaching this significant milestone in their policing careers.

“Naturally, the recruits are disappointed that we cannot welcome family and friends to the Academy to share in this significant moment in their careers, but it hasn’t dampened their

spirits and they are keen to commence duties,” Assistant Commissioner Barrie said.

“I wish them well as they head off to their new stations and start their law enforcement careers.”

FACTS AND FIGURES ABOUT CLASS 342 A total of 197 recruits were sworn in.

The class comprises 125 men and 72 women.

The students will attest with the rank of probationary constable. Recruits commenced duty at their stations from last Monday 17 August 2020.

They will then complete 12 months of ‘on-the-job’ training and study by distance education with Charles Sturt University. They officially graduate with an Associate Degree in Policing Practice once they have passed all academic and operational standards.

The officers will then be confirmed to the rank of constable.

Of the probationary constables, 170 were born in Australia and 27 were born overseas. Their countries of origin include Hong Kong, Nepal, Wales and India.

Class 342 comprises: • 27 recruits aged 19-20 • 84 recruits aged 21-25 • 46 recruits aged 26-30 • 15 recruits aged 31-35 • 17 recruits aged 36-40 • 8 recruits aged over 40.

NORTH WEST METROPOLITAN REGION – 53 Blacktown PAC – 6 Blue Mountains PAC – 1 Hawkesbury PAC – 2 Kuring Gai PAC – 3 Mt Druitt PAC – 3 Nepean PAC – 5 North Shore PAC – 9 Northern Beaches PAC – 6 Parramatta PAC – 2 Quakers Hill PAC – 3 Ryde PAC – 8 The Hills PAC – 5

Police files

Teenager charged after serious assault – Penrith

St Marys man charged over supply of 3D-printed firearms

A teenage boy has appeared in court charged after a serious assault last week.

About 4pm (Thursday 13 August 2020), officers attached Nepean Police Area Command attended Kleing Place, Penrith, where they observed a group of teenagers watching an organised fight.

As police approached, it’s alleged a 15-year-old boy grabbed hold of a second boy, also aged 15, and pushed him to the ground, causing him to hit his head on the concrete.

The injured teen was treated at the scene by paramedics before being taken to Nepean Hospital suffering serious head injuries. He was later transferred to The Children’s Hospital at Westmead.

The 15-year-old boy was arrested nearby and taken to Penrith Police Station where he was charged with recklessly inflict grievous bodily harm.

He was refused bail to appear at a Children’s Local Court.

Criminal Groups Squad detectives have charged a man and seized five pistols following an investigation into the supply of 3D-printed firearms across Sydney’s west.

In August last year, detectives from the State Crime Command’s Criminal Groups Squad established Strike Force Vigornia to investigate the manufacture and supply of the 3D-printed firearms.

During the investigation, police seized 3D-printed firearms parts and five 3D-printed pistols. The items will undergo further forensic examination.

Following extensive inquiries, Strike Force Raptor detectives, with assistance from Strike Force Raptor Operations Support Group (OSG), executed a search warrant at a home at St Marys last week (Tuesday 11 August 2020).

During the search, officers seized a number of items relevant to the investigation.

A 29-year-old man was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station, where he was charged with two counts of supply unregistered firearm (pistol), four counts of unauthorised supply of firearm part, three counts of supply/give ammunition to person not authorised and unlawfully sell firearm parts 3 times or more within 1 year.

Police will allege in court that the man was involved in the supply of 3D-printed firearms and firearm parts across Sydney.

He was refused bail to appear at Penrith Local Court.

Scamwatch: top tips to protect yourself

Y

our personal information is valuable. You have a lot to lose – and not only money.

Once lost, it can take years to recover your identity. But there are some simple ways you can protect yourself.

Feeling confident? Put your knowledge to the test and take our quiz to check if you can be yourself online or if you would let a scammer be you.

Do your own research to independently verify if someone is who they claim to be.

If you receive a phone call from someone you suspect is a scammer, hang up, find the organisation’s number yourself and call them back.

Never use a number they give you.

Don’t trust a site or an ad just because it’s advertised on social media or classified website, or claims it’s endorsed by a celebrity. Check independent reviews and be wary of offers too good to be true.

Be suspicious of emails and messages asking for your personal information, even if they seem to be from a trusted source.

Watch out for telltale signs of a scam in unsolicited emails and messages, like not using your correct name, typos and grammatical errors, or suspicious web addresses.

Don’t click on links in unexpected emails or messages, even if it appears to have come from a

legitimate source.

Don’t share personal information online with someone you’ve never met in person.

Don’t give financial or account details, or copies of your identity documents to someone online who you’ve never met in person.

Never give strangers remote access to your computer.

Limit what personal information you share about yourself online, including on social media.

Use strong passwords for your accounts and internet network, and never share them with others.

Find out more about how to detect and protect yourself by visiting scamwatch.gov.au

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local COLUMNIST

Puppies need the dentist too

Nepean News 20 August 2020 Issue 284

30

J

ust like human babies, puppies are born with no teeth. Their first set of baby teeth, or milk teeth, grow in between 3-4 weeks of age.

When your puppy is around 4-5 months old, these teeth will fall out to make room for their permanent set of adult teeth. By 5-7 months, all the adult teeth will be present. It is important to note this can vary depending on the breed.

This means that puppies experience teething twice, once for their milk teeth and again with their adult teeth. While teething is generally not a painful process for your puppy, they may experience some discomfort in their jaw at this time. The best way to help them alleviate this is to provide your puppy with specifically-designed soft chew toys. This will also prevent unwanted chewing of other objects around the house.

Signs your puppy is teething • red, inflamed gums • drooling and offensive breath • increased chewing behaviour – chewing is the most obvious sign that your puppy is teething and you can help them by providing them with safe toys and discouraging biting • bleeding gums – a small amount of bleeding from the gums is normal and you may find specks of blood on your puppy’s favourite chew toys • missing teeth – you may find these on the floor but it is also common and safe for your puppy to swallow these as they fall out • decreased appetite – puppies may eat slower or less as it causes them discomfort When is it necessary to see the vet?

While teething often involves some bleeding from the gums as your puppy’s sharp teeth emerge, if you notice a large amount of blood, immediately seek professional assistance from your vet. Before all your puppy’s adult teeth have grown in, you should book them in for a dental appointment for a precautionary checkup.

What to expect at the dental checkup The vet will check your puppy for: • crooked teeth – this can be caused by two teeth coming in at one spot, or if a baby tooth has not fallen out when the adult tooth is emerging.

• jaw misalignment – for some breeds with short muzzles, a slight underbite is normal However, if your puppy is showing signs of a strong underbite or overbite, vet intervention may be required to correct chewing and eating issues in the future.

• bad breath – this is not normal in dogs and may indicate that your puppy has a low-grade infection • broken or cracked teeth – if a tooth has broken below the gum line and the nerve is exposed, your puppy will be in discomfort and may develop an infection • tartar build up – while tartar build up is uncommon in puppies, it occasionally does happen.

Implement a dental routine while your puppy is young to avoid dental diseases in the future. Phone Greencross Vet Coreen Ave on 0247313055 and book a complimentary dental check this month.

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

Can you help reunite these pets with their families?

When a pet goes missing it is a particularly distressing time for any owner. And by the look on the faces of some of these local pets who’ve been found, it can be pretty distressing for the pet as well.

Have you seen any of our missing pets?

Do you recognise any of the pets who have been found?

There’s a facebook page called Penrith Area Lost and Found Animals and they are exceptionally good at reuniting lost pets with their owners. If you have any information regarding any of our featured pets, please head to the page and scroll for the owner’s information. You can also call Hawkesbury Animal Shelter (which also serves the Penrith area) on 4560 4644. Alternatively, if you don’t use facebook feel free to call us on 9834 5579 and we will hook you up!

FOUND Orchard Hills

FOUND MISSING FOUND South Penrith

Snow from South Penrith

PENRITH

A different Vietnam Veterans Day this year Restrictions on gatherings meant there couldn’t be the usual public Vietnam Veterans Day service this year.

However anybody wanting to be part of the service was able to plug into a video service on the St Marys Outpost Facebook page.

On Tuesday a short service for St Marys sub-Branch and Patrons was held at The Bandy.

Lest We Forget.

Social Butterfly

Nepean News 20 August 2020 Issue 284

32

ENTERTAINMENT

Mike’s Pantry

with Michael Creed

Bobotie Ingredients:

1 kg minced lamb 2 large dried peaches, chopped 1/2 cup seeded raisins, chopped 1 slice white bread 1 cup milk 2 tablespoons butter or oil 2 large onions, finely chopped 1 tablespoon madras style curry powder 1/2 tablespoon brown sugar salt and pepper 1/4 cup lemon juice 2 small eggs 1/4 cup almonds 2 lemon or bay leaves

Cooking:

Preheat oven to 200.Soak dried fruit in water for 30 mins, drain and set aside.

Heat butter or oil in large frypan, broen mince then remove mince into a large bowl.

Add the onions to the frypan and some extra oil if needed, fry until

soft but not coloured. Add curry powder, sugar, salt and pepper and stir for one minute. Stir in lemon juice and bring to simmer, then pour contents of the pan over meat. Add milk soaked bread, i egg and the peaches, raisins and almonds. knead by hand until all combined well.

Pack the lamb into greased lasagne dish and tuck the bay leaves under the surface of the meat.

Beat one egg with 3/4 cup milk, season lightly and pour over the surface of the meat. Bake in oven for 40 minutes until the surface is browned and firm.

Serve hot with boiled rice and vegetables.

Book now for

Father’s day

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

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ENTERTAINMENT

Nepean News 20 August 2020 Issue 284

34

We’ve come along way since the original Father’s Day 21km city-wide race and feasting afterward on sweet bread. In Thailand, everyone wears yellow, give canna flowers to their fathers and eat, while in Nepal, aside from gift giving, the ceremonial tradition “Kushe Aunsi” is performed where boys touch their heads to their father’s feet and girls touch their heads to their father’s hands. And they feast.

Not surprisingly, the German tradition of “Vatertag” is to drink beer and eat!

What is our Australian tradition? We eat, drink, and spend time together. We love the outdoors and the beginning of spring is the perfect time to get out in the fresh air! While COVID-19 has impacted many venues and we are all concerned about transmission, a cruise on the Nepean Belle in the fresh air of the Nepean Gorge is a unique and safe way to celebrate your father this Father’s Day. Bookings are now open for our 2-Course, 2.5 hour Father’s Day Cruise on Sunday 6 September.

Come celebrate with us – and maybe start a tradition of your own! w w w. n e p e a n b e l l e . c o m . a u 02 4733-1274

By Carol Bennett

T

he first known Father’s Day in Australia was held on the afternoon of Sunday September 6, 1936 in Newcastle, New South Wales.

An ad appearing in the Newcastle Sun on Friday 4 September, 1936, advertises a special “Father’s Day meeting” to be held in the Newcastle Baptist Tabernacle (not far from the Town Hall). A well-known Sydney preacher, Pastor Weller, was coming to speak to an audience of “men of all dominations”. It seems this was not a family affair, rather the invitation was for men only and they were encouraged to bring along their sons!

It is not known why Father’s Day came to be. Was it jealousy that Mother’s Day had become popular, or there was a need to boost retail sales in the period between Mother’s Day and Christmas? Regardless, today’s Father’s Day has evolved to honour our fathers, as well as father-figures - those men that play a significant role in our lives and the lives of our children.

In Mexico, “Dia del Padre” involves fathers participating in a

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Leased (9) 6 Not white (5) 9 Reverberating (7) 10 Completely (7) 11 Ruminations (7) 12 Acrobat or tumbler (7) 13 Tiara, crown or derby,

for example (9) 15 Anagram of “Toots” (5) 16 Mend (5) 19 Captivate (9) 22 Frenzied (7) 23 Gives information (7) 25 Gracefully slender (7) 26 Modifying text or film (7) 27 Abominable snowmen (5) 28 A seductive woman (9))

down 1 Whipping, clotted or

ice (5) 2 Inability to understand

language (7) 3 Diluted (7)

solution 6/8/20

4 Furies (5) 5 Pharmacists (9) 6 In good time (7) 7 Side-by-side (7) 8 A metric for typing (9) 13 In a positive expectant

manner (9) 14 Not wasteful of time (9) 17 Buses or commuter trains,

for example (7) 18 Weiners (7) 20 Impose something

unpleasant (7) 21 A company that flies passengers (7) 23 Small intestine (5) 24 Heroic tales (5)

ENTERTAINMENT

Nepean News 20 August 2020 Issue 284

Live & Unlocked

A series of music and cabaret events at The Joan

T

he Joan is rebooting 2020 and breathing life back into its spaces with a season of live performance and entertainment over six Friday nights from 21 August through to 16 October. The series is a chance for audiences to emerge from a winter of isolation, get out of the house again, and fill hearts with the joy of a shared live experience. With safety in small numbers, a full COVID-safe plan in action, and a commitment to keeping our community protected, The Joan is ready to welcome audiences back.

The line-up includes No Cabaret for Old Men on 21 August with stars of the Wharf Revue Jonathan Biggins & Phil Scott, bringing you a masterclass in cabaret – with neither the mastery nor class. The following Friday 28 August Chliean-born Daniel Rojas & his String Quartet present Saltango; a lively evening of Salsa, Tango and Peruvian/ Andean music performed with all the natural warmth and charisma of a Latin American Salsa band.

On Friday 11 September, comedian and TV personality Gretel Killeen will host a special evening of laughs and light-hearted creativity with Life Drawing – Burlesque in the Borland. Modelled by local artist Will Tredinnick and themed within

the playful atmosphere of Burlesque, the bar will be open throughout with materials supplied or the option to bring your own.

Friday September 25 sees The Waldo Fabian Sextet take the stage with international recognised local musician Waldo Fabian Garrido presenting cross-genre jazz/fusion with his band of talented musicians on drums, trumpet, vibraphone, bass and piano in a relaxed space to help you forget about the outside world for a while.

The cabaret-theme continues throughout September with Curtains - a live show where vocalist Meredith O’Reilly & renowned pianist John Martin explore in detail thirty-five years of the ups and downs of showbiz.

They’ll perform songs from smash hit Broadway performances such as Les Miserables, Hello Dolly! Rocky Horror, The Producers and more – and dish out the dirt where fact was truly stranger than fiction.

The last event in the Live & Unlocked series is a kaleidoscopic ride through folk tunes, jazz and fresh compositions in Visions of Nar, with saxophonist/ composer Jeremy Rose (of The Vampires) and winner of the 2020 ABC music grant, pianist Zela Margossian, fusing an alluring combination of their

styles with influences from around the world.

Details for the Live & Unlocked event series are as follows: No Cabaret for Old Men Friday 21 August 7.30pm $50 Standard | $45 Concession Jonathan Biggins & Phil Scott Saltango Friday 28 August 7.30pm $40 Standard | $35 Concession Daniel Rojas and Ensemble Apex Life Drawing – Burlesque in the Borland Hosted by Gretel Killeen & Will Tredinnick Friday 11 September 7.30pm $50 Standard | $45 Concession Explore your creative side with a night of burlesque life drawing with food, drink and socially distanced friends.

The Waldo Fabian Sextet Friday 25 September 7.30pm $40 Standard | $35 Concession Exceptional talent led by internationally recognised local musician Waldo Fabian Garrido Curtains Friday 9 October 7.30pm $40 Standard | $35 Concession Meredith O’Reilly (vocals) & John Martin (piano)

35

Saltango - Daniel Rojas

Visions of Nar Friday 16 October 7.30pm $40 Standard | $35 Concession Jeremy Rose (saxophonist/ composer) & Zela Margossian (pianist) Special Package Deal 3x Music Performances $100 Standard | $90 Concession While The Joan has a focus on safety, the Live & Unlocked event series has a focus on fun. It’s filled with joyous sounds, celebratory rhythms, raucous laughs and lively experiences. Book now to secure your ticket as numbers are limited.

To book please visit: www.thejoan. com.au/event-series/live-unlocked/

Nepean News 20 August 2020 Issue 284

36

local news DEFINING MOMENTS

T

Influenza pandemic

he ‘Spanish flu’ pandemic emerged at the end of the First World War, killing more than 50 million people worldwide.

Despite a swift quarantine response in October 1918, cases of Spanish flu began to appear in Australia in early 1919. About 40 per cent of the population fell ill and around 15,000 died as the virus spread through Australia.

Australia must now face the fact that the scourge which has taken so heavy a toll from the rest of the world has invaded her own frontiers.

Sydney Morning Herald, 28 January 1919

What is influenza?

Influenza, or ‘the flu’, is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus.

In 15th-century Italy, an upper respiratory infection was considered to be ‘influenced’ by the stars, thereby giving the disease its name.

There are three types of the virus: Influenza A, B and C, with Influenza A causing the most severe infections.

The virus mutates rapidly and constantly, meaning the human population cannot build up an enduring immunity. The flu is estimated to cause up to 3500 deaths in Australia each year.

History of influenza in Australia Influenza was first noted in Australia in 1820 and reported in the Sydney Almanack of 1834.

While influenza epidemics commonly occur each winter, there have been a number of pandemics (epidemics of worldwide proportion) in Australia’s history. These include a series of pandemics in the 1890s, 1957, 1968 and 2009. The most devastating pandemic took place in 1918–19.

Preparing for the Spanish flu pandemic The 1918–19 influenza pandemic is often called the ‘Spanish flu’, not because it originated in Spain, but due to it first being widely reported there.

This pandemic started in 1918, the last year of the First World War, and passed through soldiers in Western Europe in successively more virulent waves.

Unusually, the Spanish flu affected healthy young adults much more than its usual targets: children, the elderly or those with weakened immune systems.

In Australia, the virus became known as ‘pneumonic influenza’.

The virus spread rapidly around the world as soldiers returned from active service at the end of the war.

Because of its remoteness from Europe, Australia had months to make necessary preparations.

Women wearing surgical masks during influenza epidemic, Brisbane 1919

Quarantine The first line of defence was to try to prevent the virus reaching the Australian mainland. The Australian Quarantine Service monitored the spread of the pandemic and implemented maritime quarantine on 17 October 1918 after learning of outbreaks in New Zealand and South Africa.

The first infected ship to enter Australian waters was the Mataram, from Singapore, which arrived in Darwin on 18 October 1918. Over the next six months the service intercepted 323 vessels, 174 of which carried the infection. Of the 81,510 people who were checked, 1102 were infected.

The federal government’s second line of defence was to establish a consistent response in handling and containing any pneumonic influenza outbreaks that might occur in Australia.

It held a national influenza planning conference in Melbourne on 26–27 November 1918, at which state health ministers, the directors-general of their health departments and British Medical Association representatives met with Commonwealth personnel.

The conference agreed to the federal government taking responsibility for proclaiming which states were infected along with organising maritime and land quarantine. The states would arrange emergency hospitals, vaccination depots, ambulance services, medical staff and public awareness measures.

Book cover for Spanish Influenza: All About It by Professor Wade Oliver

Development of influenza vaccine Commonwealth Serum Laboratories was established during the First World War to alleviate Australia’s dependence on imported vaccines. In 1918 it developed its first, experimental vaccine in anticipation of pneumonic influenza reaching mainland Australia.

Researchers did not know what caused influenza, but produced a vaccine that addressed the more serious secondary bacterial infections that were likely to cause death.

Between 15 October 1918 and 15 March 1919, CSL produced three million free doses for Australian troops and civilians. It later evaluated the vaccines to be partially effective in preventing death in inoculated individuals.

Spanish flu in Australia Maritime quarantine contained the spread of the virus until its virulence lessened, and restricted its eventual introduction into Australia to a single entry point.

The first case of pneumonic influenza appeared in Melbourne, on 9 or 10 January 1919.

Early cases were so mild, however, that there was initially confusion about whether the virus was the Spanish flu, or simply a continuation of the seasonal flu virus from the previous winter.

This uncertainty delayed the confirmation of an outbreak from Victorian health authorities, which allowed the infection to spread to New South Wales and South Australia by the end of January 1919. New South Wales was the first state to officially proclaim an outbreak of pneumonic influenza on 27 January 1919, with Victoria following suit the next day.

Tensions in the new Federation surfaced as the other states viewed Victoria’s delay in confirming the outbreak as a breach of the November agreement made with the Commonwealth.

Soon each state made their own arrangements for handling and containing outbreaks, including organising their own border controls.

The Commonwealth temporarily withdrew from the November agreement on 11 February 1919.

The experience of pneumonic influenza varied from place to place.

The city of Sydney implemented strict measures in an attempt to limit the spread of the disease. This included closing schools and places of entertainment and mandating the use of masks.

Such measures didn’t prevent the spread of the disease, but did manage to slow its movement. Even so, Sydney experienced three waves of outbreaks, with many deaths and many more infections.

In Perth, the combination of the city’s relative isolation and effective state border quarantine control ensured that pneumonic influenza didn’t appear there until June 1919.

Perth experienced a spike in infections after crowds gathered to celebrate Peace Day on 19 July 1919.

Spanish flu death rates By the end of 1919, the influenza pandemic was over.

Across the globe, the pandemic had had a devastating effect on a population only just beginning to recover from years of war. Many more people died from the influenza pandemic (50–100 million) than had died during the First World War (18 million).

The Spanish flu is considered second only to the ‘Black Death’ plague pandemic in overall mortality rates.

In Australia, while the estimated death toll of 15,000 people was still high, it was less than a quarter of the country’s 62,000 death toll from the First World War. Australia’s death rate of 2.7 per 1000 of population was one of the lowest recorded of any country during the pandemic.

Nevertheless, up to 40 per cent of the population were infected, and some Aboriginal communities recorded a mortality rate of 50 per cent.

National Museum Australia

Influenza quarantine camp setup at Wallangarra, Queensland, 1919

NEPEAN HISTORY

newspaper of eight pages, later increasing it to ten pages selling at 3d (pence) a copy. With some interesting glimpses of the past it would no doubt have had many memories for the “old timers” who perused its pages. Early in the 1890’s Alf bought onvict George Colless (Snr) was born out the “Penrith Argus” and the “St Marys Times.” in 1771 in Herefordshire England. He Alf was first elected an Alderman of the Penrith was the son of Arthur and Elizabeth Council in 1876 and at the first general meeting Colless (Ford). He was arrested in Birmingham of the council he was appointed to the finance in 1793 and convicted at the Warwick Assizes committee and the general purposes committee with theft and sentenced to death but was sent and continued to play a prominent part in council to work on the King’s Dock at Woolwich. Later matters for the ensuing seven years. Elected Mayor his sentence was commuted to transportation for in 1880 he continued in that position (being re7 years. He was one of 311 convicts transported elected annually) until 1883 when he resigned, and to Australia on the “Barwell” in 1797, arriving in Peter Smeaton was elected in his place. He was 1798. He became a farmer at Bird’s Eye Corner on the oldest member of Lodge Nepean becoming the Nepean River. He died at Emu Plains in 1851 a member in 1877 and a Past Master, also an old aged 80 and is buried at St Stephens cemetery. His member of Queen’s Lodge, St Marys, and the Royal de-facto wife Annie Goodwin was born in 1780 Foresters’ Lodge, Penrith. Alf’s health started to fail at Herefordshire, England. She was convicted him, and he died in hospital in Sydney in December at the Warwick Assizes in 1802 and sentenced to 1920. The funeral took place when his body was 14 years. She came on the “Experiment” in May brought back to his residence in Derby Street, 1804. Annie died at Castlereagh in 1853 aged 73  Alfred Colless courtesy of afterwards to St Stephen’s Church then to the and is buried at St Stephens cemetery. Their son Penrith Library Church of England portion of the Penrith General George Colless (Jnr) born in 1810 at Castlereagh Cemetery. The services at the church and graveside was a Masonic married Phoebe Euphemia Sherringham in the Castlereagh Church in funeral with members of Lodge Nepean acting as pallbearers. As an 1835. She was the daughter of Robert & Elizabeth Sherringham (Davis/ appreciation for Alf as a member of the NSW Country Press Association, Russell). Robert was born in Norfolk, England in 1781 the son of James the President wrote to the family on behalf of the association saying & Martha Sherringham (Bull). In 1799 Robert committed the crime “Your late father played a very prominent part in our association in of stealing from the shop of Edmund Sinclair of Little Walfingham its early days and his counsel and advice were always sought by the in England stealing 2 pairs of half boots, 2 pairs of pumps (shoes) younger men in the days when many problems had to be solved. His and several working tools and was convicted at Tetford Assizes and kindly disposition, yet fearless and outspoken attitude in debate and sentenced in 1799 for transportation to Australia on the “Minorea” in his genial kindly manner will long be remembered by those who came 1801 from London for 7 years. Robert married Elizabeth Davis/Russell in contact with him. Personally, I have missed him from our meetings at St Matthews church, Windsor in 1811. He died in 1861 aged 80 years during later years and today mourn his death.” In January 1920 in the and is buried in an unmarked grave at St Mary Magdalene cemetery Nepean Times it was said that Georgina had been in ill-health for some at St Marys. Elizabeth (Sherringham) Colless died at Penrith in 1885. time and had been a patient sufferer from rheumatism for many years She was born in 1796 to Jacob & Eleanor Russell (Davis). Their son but it was not generally known, even shortly before her death at her Alfred Colless (Nepean Times) was born in 1851. He married Georgina residence “Hornseywood” that life’s closing hours were at hand. Penrith Jordan in 1872 at St Paul’s church at Emu Plains. Alfred “Alf “ (as he found itself once more unexpectedly mourning the loss of a highly was known) died in December 1920. His obituary was in his “Nepean esteemed resident. A service was held in St. Stephen’s Church and the Times” and on his death the paper was continued by his brother George. interment took place in the Church of England portion of the Penrith Alf had a very active career especially with his access to the public General Cemetery. Four nephews of Georgina acted as pall bearers. On being the founder of “The Nepean Times.” He was a protagonist in the next meeting of Penrith Council, the Mayor Alderman T Jones said several events within the history of the district. He was Mayor of the “In the last week one of our old and esteemed ex-aldermen who held Municipality in 1881 when the Penrith Council Chambers was erected. the position of Mayor in this Council for many years, has lost his wife.

When he was 14, he entered the employ of Mr Matthews whose store I refer to our old friend Mr Alf Colless. I think it is due to us to express was situated at the corner of High and Castlereagh streets and continued our sympathy with him. He was an alderman in this Council for many there for about six years, later opening a store in conjunction with Jacob years and his name is shown on the front of the council chambers as he King. When the partnership was dissolved Alf conducted business in a was Mayor when they were built. He has been in the town practically all store at the corner of High and Station Street. One of Alf’s specialities his life. Our deep sympathy goes with him in the loss he has suffered”. was making baking powder, having won first prize at an Intercolonial Exhibition. Also, in 1878 he proudly stated that he was “patronised Sources: Nepean Times, BDM online, Ancestry, English Christening Records,

by His Excellency Sir Hercules Robinson, K.C.M.G.” Other activities British convict transportation registers, Register of pioneer families, The 1788were auctioneering, and, in this respect, he conducted many important 1820 Pioneer Association, Family Search (Mormon website), St Stephen’s church business transactions. In 1882 Alf produced his first “Nepean Times” records, Trove.

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

C

Nepean News 20 August 2020 Issue 284

Australian Royalty

37

FINANCE AND REAL ESTATE MATTERS

Ask the Expert - Rising Vacancy Rates – Cause for Confusion or Clarity?

Nepean News 20 August 2020 Issue 284

38

I

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

nvestment properties are long-term propositions that are designed to potentially pay for themselves. While landlords bare the risk of carrying the mortgage, established tenants consistently pay the rent, creating a tidy profit for the property owner if and when required.

Sounds easy, right?

Well, as with all investments, risk is the word to watch out for. Savvy buyers may be suddenly second-guessing their investments with news that Sydney’s vacancy rate is now the highest in the country. Will this trickle over to Penrith?

Penrith’s property vacancy rate is currently holding steady in relation to the rest of the country.

Traditionally, nearly half of Penrith’s residents live in rental properties, which should assist in keeping the rental market buoyant. However, landlords who have suddenly found themselves without a tenant may be doing it tough and may consider removing any and all stress-inducing scenarios – including owning an investment property.

Under normal circumstances, investment property owners must speculate if outcomes are

more favourable selling with or without a tenant.

With complications including terminating a lease agreement, potential lost rental income, inspections with tenants onsite, etc. it can be a big decision with several significant variables. With strict regulations in place, it is always achievable to secure a successful sales outcome, though at times, not without hurdles.

In contrast, selling a vacant property can often be a blessing in disguise. Balancing the unfortunate scenario of no rental income is the potential to get a property prepped and perfectly presented for sale within tight deadlines. A vacant property allows instant access for repair or renovation. In addition, the option to professionally stage a property is now open, and as is widely known, staged properties perform better. With increased revenue results and quicker sale times, staged properties provide an opportunity to recoup potential lost rental returns promptly.

So as with any sale, professional advice is an outstanding investment of time and money. A conflicting market may make the next move for some investors clearer than ever.

Unprecedented incentives from governments to buy or build a property!

With Steve Beard Select Mortgage Broker

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he NSW government is increasing the concessions and incentives for First Home buyers and for anyone to build a new property to help stimulate the building sector which is an important part of our economy and provider of employment.

The government recently announced more assistance to First Home buyers purchasing brand new properties. Now from 1st of August, these lucky people don’t pay any stamp duty on properties up to $800,000. And there are concessions on stamp duty for new properties between $800,001 and $1,000,000.

Also, there is a $10,000 grant for First Home buyers building a new home up to the value of $750,000 or buying a completed new property up to the value of $600,000.

For First Home buyers purchasing vacant land, there is no stamp duty on purchases up to $400,000 and wider concessions on purchases up to $500,000 from 1/8/20.

For existing properties purchased by First Home buyers, there are no changes to stamp duty discounts.

For properties up to $650,000 there is no stamp duty and concessions on the duty for properties between $650,000 and $800,000.

The federal government is also paying the lender’s mortgage insurance for another 10,000 lucky First Home buyers under the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme. This scheme allows first home buyers to buy a property with only a 5 percent deposit saved, plus the legal, bank and other normal purchasing costs required ($3,000 to $4,000). The government is guaranteeing these loans and paying the lender’s mortgage insurance premiums that would normally apply if you borrow more than 80 percent of the property value. This saves the first home buyers many thousands of dollars.

In the greater Sydney, Illawarra and Newcastle areas, the maximum purchase price is $700,000 and the maximum income is $125,000 for individuals or $200,000 for joint applicants to qualify for the scheme. Incomes are based on your total taxable income/s from the 2019-20 tax returns as stated on your Notice of Assessments.

To secure a place in this scheme, you will need to have your loan pre-approved with one of the nominated lenders before the 10,000 new places are taken. The two large lenders involved (CBA and NAB) have issued all of their allocated positions in the scheme but there are a few smaller lenders who still have positions available. You will have to act quickly to try and get one of the remaining positions. The full details of this scheme can be found on government website https://www.nhfic. gov.au/what-we-do/fhlds/#

SELECT MORTGAGE FINANCE

NSW Home Builder Scheme There is also the $25,000 NSW Home Builder grant that is available to first home buyers and non first home buyers. The main conditions are that the total value of a new property can’t be over $750,000 and the contract must be signed from 4/6/20 to 31/12/20. There are also income thresholds of $125,000 p/a for individuals and $200,000 for joint applicants.

This $25,000 grant is also available for renovations to properties of a minimum contract value of $150,000 to a maximum of $750,000 as long as your property is valued less than $1,500,000.

If you are a buyer and can take advantage of all the government offers, then my advice is to keep looking at properties to keep a track of the supply and demand dynamics and be ready to make an offer on any suitable property that can be purchased for under the market value.

If you are looking to upgrade, it may be a smart time to sell now while the market is stable and look to purchase in 3-6 months when the economy may be weakening when the Jobkeeper and Jobseeker stimulus reduces and people have to start making their home loan repayment again.

Please do not hesitate to contact me on 47394500, 0403 166 207 or beards@selectgrp.com.au if you what to discuss your situation, any financial matters 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

Nepean News 20 August 2020 Issue 284

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Penrith Valley regional Sports Centre upgrade

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ederal Member for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh MP has announced that work is underway for the $1.2 million investment in the Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre upgrade, delivering on an election commitment for local sporting infrastructure.

“Through this upgrade, we’re delivering vital roof repairs, the installation of air conditioning, roller door replacements, electrical upgrades, painting, two court dividing curtains and evaporative cooling, as well as installation of a drinking fountain and new bathroom renovations,” said Ms McIntosh.

“This is such an important multi-sport facility for our community and was in need of some work so that it can continue to be enjoyed by local families.”

General Manager of the Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre, Luke Hepburn, was delighted to see the upgrade continue during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“During this difficult time, we’re finding the positive in the negative of COVID-19. With Melissa’s support our spirits have been kept high, gifted with the opportunity to complete these works at the centre. Witnessing all the local trades that have been engaged in our renovation project, we know firsthand how these works can keep people employed during this awful pandemic,” said Mr Hepburn.

“We want to thank Melissa and the Australian Government for getting the PVRSC through this pandemic to date. With Job Keeper, cash flow boost and Service NSW’s small business grant, we have been given a lifeline allowing us to continue

to work through this pandemic and get on with the PVRSC refurbishments.”

“The Centre even hosted the Penrith Jobs Fair in February this year, welcoming more than 4,000 local job seekers and connecting them with local

small businesses and emerging industries. This just shows the versatility of this Centre and its impact on our community,” said Ms McIntosh.

“I will always back our sporting facilities so more local families can stay healthy and be active.”

SPORT

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Should we value performance or results?

s a player, parent or coach do you choose to focus on the end score line, time or position in which an athlete or team finishes? Or do you choose to focus on how well the athlete or team performed, not the end result?

What you believe in this case is vital when giving feedback, particularly to young athletes who are learning and developing within their specific sport. A large section of youth sport coaches and parents become obsessed by results. Just scroll through your social media and look at parents and clubs alike sprucing results, the wins, not the losses.

We need to seriously consider the message this sends to the young athletes within youth sports. Are we promoting effort, application, work ethic, having fun, accepting a loss and or a losing season, having a mindset to improve and develop on performances regardless of the most recent result?

Coaches and parents behave differently in reaction to results. They are often more obsessed than the players. After a win they are over the moon and full of compliments. After a loss it feels like the walls are closing in and there are excuses and blame

distributed. None of this aids personal or athletic development.

We need to stop and gain some perspective on what is important. And that is the quality of the performance. The result means nothing. Good performances will set in motion the process needed in order to achieve positive results. Focus on and develop the elements which contribute to an athlete achieving a good performance.

An applicable reference point can be found when you compare the Broncos and the Bulldogs over the last six weeks of the NRL competition. Both teams results have been identical with 1 win and 5 losses. But when you delve deeper and look at the quality of performances and the consistency across each week, the Bulldogs have performed at a much higher quality across that period.

Generalisations and surface reactions are often made through looking at the quantitative and the numbers of a result. It gives a fast, simple and general snapshot of what might have happened within a performance.

To look at the qualitative elements of a performance takes more time and effort along with

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

requiring a knowledge and intelligence around the indicators on what a quality performance looks like, in order to make a judgement which does not take into account the end result. This is where learning and development occurs for both athletes, parents and coaches.

Judge teams based on how they perform, not just on the result. Personally within my 13 seasons working at NRL clubs in the lower grade competitions, most clubs will speak to a development culture but when it comes to the execution of a plan they will become distracted and influenced by results and at times make decisions based on the surface information while often ignoring the quality of both team and individual performances.

To focus on results and not valuing performance is creating a generation of coaches and athletes who are solely focused on winning at all costs within youth sports. This is causing significant damage to participation numbers as the fun is taken away, only to be replaced by pressure and expectation. The fun is in the action during a performance not in the final result. Let the game or the sport be the teacher, not the final result.

Proudly sponsored by Penrith Party Hire (02) 4731 1313

Rance Oval upgrade a win for local cricket teams

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he next crop of potential cricket stars, club officials and spectators can look forward to the best season of cricket yet as upgrades to improve Rance Oval in Werrington get underway.

The $585,000 upgrade includes the expansion of the existing amenity building to provide player showers, umpire change room, club and canteen storage. A new automatic irrigation system was also installed in May. The project will also deliver new accessible public toilets to the site.

These upgrades were jointly funded by Penrith City Council and through grants awarded by the NSW Government ICC World T20 2020 Cricket Legacy Fund, Cricket NSW and Penrith Cricket Club.

Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM said Rance Oval is a wonderful asset for our local cricket teams and the work to improve the site will be welcomed by clubs and players alike.

“These upgrades will directly benefit our junior and senior representative cricket players who meet and compete at this oval each week and will hopefully encourage more people to get involved in the sport,” Cr Fowler said.

“Of course, we know it is not just sporting clubs who use this oval. The community will also benefit yearround, and I look forward to seeing families and groups of friends getting active at the improved facilities.”

The NSW ICC T20 World Cup Legacy Fund will deliver up to $6 million dollars to cricket clubs and councils to support the growth in cricket participation in NSW. Acting Minister for Sport Geoff Lee said the Rance Oval project was a great example of how the NSW ICC T20 World Cup 2020 Cricket Legacy Fund was benefiting grassroots and community cricket across the State.

“We’ve given more than $4 million to clubs and councils to support 133 projects across NSW during the first

two rounds and we’re proud to see the positive impacts on cricket across our state,” Mr Lee said.

“The Legacy Fund invests in all levels of cricket, from girls and boys picking up a bat and ball for the first time, to showcasing our elite players at events across NSW.” Cricket NSW Chief Executive Officer Lee Germon said Cricket NSW is delighted to have been involved in bringing the Rance Oval upgrades to fruition with a grant from the Australian Cricket Infrastructure

Fund.

“Cricket NSW and Cricket Australia are committed to developing and improving facilities to help foster the love of cricket and increase participation across the broader community,” said Mr Germon.

“These projects are often not possible without collaboration and a partnership approach to funding. We would like to acknowledge Penrith City Council for their ongoing support for cricket in their community, and for the contributions made by the NSW Government via the ICC T20 World Cup 2020 Cricket Legacy Fund and

by Penrith Cricket Club”.

Penrith Cricket Club President Paul Goldsmith said the investment in Rance Oval is a great outcome for the cricket community and thanked Council, the NSW Government and Cricket NSW for their support.

“The Penrith Cricket Club is excited to see the development of Rance Oval near its completion. The investment in the ground and change room facilities will make Rance Oval one of the best cricket grounds in the wider area,” Mr Goldsmith said.

The Rance Oval upgrade is due to be complete by October 2020. For more information on this project and other park and playground upgrades please visit: www.penrithcity.nsw. gov.au/facilities-recreation/outdoorrecreation/sport-and-recreationstrategy

Nepean News 20 August 2020 Issue 284

Coach’s Corner

Brock Shepperd

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Celebrity ROUND 15

ROUND 16

PAR PAN BRI GCT WES SOU BUL NEW PAR STG SYD NZW CRO PAN MEL CAN MEL CRO STG CAN SYD MAN NZW NQC SOU GCT BRI NEW NQC WES MAN BUL Aug 20 7.50pm

Aug 21 6.00pm

Aug 21 7.55pm

Aug 22 3.00pm

Aug 22 5.30pm

Aug 22 7.35pm

Aug 23 2.00pm

Aug 23 4.05pm

Aug 27 7.50pm

Aug 28 6.00pm

Aug 28 7.55pm

Aug 29 3.00pm

Aug 29 5.30pm

Aug 29 7.35pm

Aug 30 4.05pm

Aug 30 6.30pm

SCORE

Terry ‘Mad Dog” Corbett - St Clair Comets

156 Natalie Ballard - Novus Law Group - 0404 474 084

164 John Veitch - Parramatta Motor Group - 9912 2000

156 Captain Chris - Nepean Belle - 4733 1274

146 Armchair Champions Podcast - www.armchairchampions.com.au

146 Bec Passlow - Pioneer Tavern - 4736 4647

160 John Kibbey - Raine & Horne Commercial - 0417 228 538

154 Vic Shipley - Powersmart Electrical - 0415 982 093

152 Ross Franklyn-Smith - Club President, St Marys Diggers & Band Club - 9623 1211

150 Derry - O’Donovans Pty Ltd - 4736 1400 Councillor Benard Bratusa

152 Daniel Galea--@print Adenbrook Homes - 9622 4091 Aaron Tyres

162

Come join the family

mgactiv.com.au

TIPSTERS ROUND 15

ROUND 16

PAR PAN BRI GCT WES SOU BUL NEW PAR STG SYD NZW CRO PAN MEL CAN MEL CRO STG CAN SYD MAN NZW NQC SOU GCT BRI NEW NQC WES MAN BUL Aug 20 7.50pm

Aug 21 6.00pm

Aug 21 7.55pm

Aug 22 3.00pm

Aug 22 5.30pm

Aug 22 7.35pm

Aug 23 2.00pm

Aug 23 4.05pm

Aug 27 7.50pm

Aug 28 6.00pm

Aug 28 7.55pm

Aug 29 3.00pm

Aug 29 5.30pm

Aug 29 7.35pm

Aug 30 4.05pm

Aug 30 6.30pm

SCORE

Terry Geyer ‘Mad Dog” Corbett - St Columnist Clair Comets Mark - Nepean News and Owner of MG Activ

160 Prue Car - Member for Londonderry - 9833 1122

168 Toby Hughes - Sinclair Hyundai - 4720 1111

178 Alex McKenzie - Future Financial Services - 0414 330 651

160 Scott Moore - Electra Cables - 0439 021 368

152 Jim Hill - Nepean Solar - 4760 0809

146 Aaron Tyers - @print - 4731 5055

166 Brock Shepperd - Wests Harold Matthews Coach

156 Bradley George - Bespoke Realty Group - 4737 9977

158 Will Wise - East West Building & Kitchens - 9673 2621

160 Steve Beard - Select Mortgage - 0403 166 207

152

“Where you can be you”

mgactiv.com.au

Nepean News 20 August 2020 Issue 284

44

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Tex’s tales with Dale ‘Tex’ Walker The Panthers created club history by winning their ninth successive game over the Warriors in Gosford last Friday night.

The game was marred by an incident involving winger Brent Naden following his early try when allegedly racially abused by a small section of the crowd.

Coach Ivan Cleary said the abuse came on more than one occasion by a group of predominantly Warriors supporters.

“Brent is okay, though he didn’t think it would affect him as much as it did, he was clearly affected during the match,” Cleary said after the game.

NRL Chairman Peter V’landys was furious when contacted by The Daily Telegraph following the game.

“Racial abuse will not be tolerated in the game under any circumstances, we will take the strongest possible action if proven.”

It was far from the Panthers finest victory and a real concern in the final ten minutes when they could not close out the game.

Nathan Cleary has been deservedly praised all season but his judgement of not taking field goal opportunities on at least two occasions could have seen the Panthers pay the ultimate price.

The Warriors looked set to score late in the game but fortunately for the Panthers a wild pass knocked on near the try line sealed the victory.

I’m sure if they had their time over again a shot or two for a one pointer would have been on the cards.

What a fabulous moment when Ivan Cleary surprised youngster Daine Lauire with the announcement that he would make his NRL debut against The Canberra Raiders just under a fortnight ago.

Cleary usually has a chat on the quiet to his players with selection but kept this one close to his chest.

“It was a shock, that’s for sure,” said Laurie.

“I have dreamed of this all my life and I just want to make my family proud.”

Laurie was born in Penrith but in the early days his Parents moved to Iluka near Coffs Harbour.

“My dad played locally and he was and is my inspiration along with mum and older brother,” he said.

“I played from the age of 6 and in my teens sent a highlights video to Penrith and they took me on. I’ve got a lot to thank them for.”

Laurie is very proud of his indigenous heritage - The Bundjalung people in the Northern Rivers.

“My family and people mean so much to me, If I can make them smile it means I’m doing ok,” he said.

Laurie first joined Panthers in 2017 as a member of the club’s SG Ball squad. In 2018 he was named Panthers Jersey Flegg Player of

the Year and the following year signed an NRL development contract with the club for 2020 and 2021.

He looks set for a lengthy NRL career.

A Window of Opportunity I recently watched an online segment and an interview on Sky News with Alan Jones featuring Sky Radio’s(1017AM) Simon Harrison. The lad from Perth, who moved to Sydney in 1987, shares a wonderful and inspirational story.

I had a bit to do with Simon in his early years and he is truly an all round good guy.

He sits in the Frenchs Forest radio studio on weekdays and weekends and puts live horse and greyhound racing action to air. I nicknamed him Big Maxy Walker as the similarity in dulcet tones are uncanny. The name Big Maxy has stuck, he likes the big part but I digress.

He had a desire to become a news reader and his passion quickly turned to sport and horse racing.

One day he asked 2KY if they had any opportunities. Following some training he was scheduled to help out as they were light on resources.

“I’ll never forget the day, May 19 2003, I got the call as someone was sick,” he said.

But let’s turn back the clock a bit.

In 1996 Harrison almost lost his life. At age 15, he was one his way home one Saturday night and was involved in a train accident at Wahroonga Station.

“I have little recollection of what happened, all I remember was waking up in Royal North Shore Hospital,” he said.

“There were no CCTV cameras in those days and nothing was seen or reported.”

Harrison had somehow fallen onto the tracks and was run over by a train.

His left arm was amputated along with losing all his fingers on his right hand in the process.

“In the 18 months that followed it felt like I went into a free fall and was like looking through a window at a life without me,” he said.

“The emotions of denial, anger and blame took a long time to process, it was very tough there for a while.”

He was living in Parramatta on a Disability Support Pension and admits this was when he was at his lowest point.

“I was hanging around with the wrong crowd, had no money and was living in denial,” said Harrison.

“I remember walking home one night saying to

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SPORT

with Dale ‘Tex’ Walker The day Fox Sports announced they were not renewing broadcaster Simon Hill’s contract was yet another kick in the teeth for the A League and Australian Football. Poor TV ratings, lacklustre games and a lack of stars has seen a one time exciting competition pale into insignificance in the sporting sphere.

The A League competition started out well in 2005 with the likes of Dwight Yorke and followed on with Alessandra Del Piero and Shinji Ono, but the past five seasons or so have produced a massive decline.

Covid-19 has seen little interest in the

competition so Fox decided that one of the very few strengths in Simon Hill was to be no more!!

But one door closes and another opens. Hill has now joined Optus and fans are excited.

Hill has joined the coverage this month to add his expertise to the UEFA Champions League and Europa League competitions.

“To have the privilege of calling the world’s best football competition is a huge honour, and hopefully I can do it for justice for our Australian audience,”: he said.

And justice, no doubt he will do.

This year’s Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival already has an eerie feeling about it.

The Victoria Racing club is still holding out hope small crowds may watch its Melbourne Cup Carnival - but in reality it is next to no chance of happening.

With overseas trainers bypassing the event due to Covid - 19, the carnival will be an all Australian affair - and many will say about time.

The Melbourne Cup has been dominated by overseas raiders for a number of years taking away the tradition and heart and soul of what the Melbourne Cup is all about.

But what lies ahead for the Spring Carnival in Melbourne? Not much one would presume, there will be no glitz and glamour, no corporate marquees, no celebs, no luncheons or fashions in the field.

But it can be celebrated in a different manner. During the lockdown in Sydney many households formed their own day at the races,

by dressing up, popping the champers and doing their best to back a winner. It’s turning a negative into a positive and making the most out of what is a crap situation. Provided we still can’t attend the racetracks, I’d love to hear your thoughts and plans for this year, send me a line at infotextfit@gmail.com.

For the record, I’ll buy the Best Bets (Racing Bible), fill up the betting account, put on a shirt and tie, hook the laptop up to the TV, fill the fridge full of amber ale and some bubbles,get the wife and kids dressed to the nines for our own Fashions In The Field and have my own corporate function - Walker style. And if still allowed, have some friends over as well.

The Sydney Spring Carnival commences Group 1 action on Saturday September 19 at Randwick featuring the George Main Stakes whilst Melbourne kick off with their first Group 1 Makybe Diva Stakes at Flemington on September 12.

Nepean News 20 August 2020 Issue 284

Tex’s tales

45

Simmon Harrison on set with Alan Jones at Sky News last week.

myself that there was no hope left for me, I can’t play football, I can’t play the guitar and who’d have me at their place of employment.

“I’d convinced myself there was nothing in life for me and it was time to end it.

“By chance the next day I walked into the TAB at Parramatta and started to watch the horse races to take my mind off things. It was like it was a sign, I began to appreciate the thoroughbred and it’s athleticism.

“I became a regular at the TAB, I’d put on a few 50 cents wagers and I came to know the locals.

“They kept saying I had a great voice for radio and I should try and utilise it. That’s when the 2KY approach came in.”

“I started to accept the accident and stop the denial. I got on with my life, but being in denial for so long has created some mental health issues.

Depression sets in from time to time, I just try to keep busy and make sure I’m around good people, that helps me, I’m grateful to be alive.”

To be able to coordinate a race day in the studios is a frantic and high pressure role for any individual, let alone someone with one arm.

With precision he runs a smooth operation and is the voice of racing in NSW over the airwaves.

“It took plenty of practice, that’s for sure,” said Harrison.

“There’s not a day goes by that I don’t love my job, I feel blessed and lucky.”

In more recent times he has dedicated his time facilitating workshops for Sydney Settlement International for people with disabilities from overseas now living in the western suburbs of Sydney.

“I know how tough it can be as a fifth generation Australian trying to adapt to life with a disability, let alone coming from a different country where English isn’t your first language,” he said.

“It was the least I could do, I wanted to instill confidence that life is there to live and they can do the same things as anyone else, the experience was very uplifting.

“These people didn’t realise just how inspiring they are, I helped them with their public speaking and to tell their stories. There were some horrific situations, many of them are from war torn countries.

“My best advice is to volunteer your time, persist and don’t give up your faith.”

Saturday’s are the biggest days in racing, be sure to tune in from time to time to listen to this talented young 39 year old. 2KY, Sky Sports Radio 1017 on the A.M Band.

Simon Harrison, take a bow my friend. You get our Fair Play of the Week, no make that of the decade, Award by a country mile.

We spoke of online gutless wonders a couple of weeks ago when Raider John Bateman was the the centre of attention from hate groups, well the filthy scum were at it again after GWS veteran Callan Ward revealed he received death threats following his match-winning goal against Essendon last Friday week.

It’s got me and just about everybody else stumped as to why a human being would stoop so low to perform such actions.

Ward received a free kick late in the game.

It was arguably a free kick but he performed a small theatric to ensure the umpire gave it his way.

At the end of the day it’s only a game, but not to some. Sending a death threat is unforgivable and the person in question should be locked up.

The pressure on playing groups during the current COVID bubbles are straining on one’s mental health enough without some lowlife adding to it with online threats and insults.

Meanwhile GWS loss to the Sydney Swans has put their finals campaign in slight jeopardy.

The Giants are sitting ninth on the ladder with seven rounds remaining. They require a huge

performance against the West Coast Eagles this Sunday and it promises to be one of the games of the season. Centre Bounce from Perth at 6:10PM.

Have you spotted a celeb in the local area or wish to submit a comment or have a tale to tell?

Send an email to infotexfit@gmail.com or follow twitter @texy71.

T

Nepean News 20 August 2020 Issue 284

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Local golf’s high achievers

By Noel Rowsell

P

enrith GC 2019 J u n i o r Club Champion Blake Murray is our next player profile and despite a very brief career of just 3 years, has already been mentioned in Parliament by local member Stuart Ayres MP in a Community Recognition Statement.

Blake was the Western Sydney Academy of Sport (WSAS) Golf Athlete of the Year in 2019, has achieved some impressive victories in a very short period and as a sign of his maturity at such a young age, is also a member of the Penrith GC Major Pennant Squad.

Blake Murray Age: 18 Years playing golf and which clubs: I have been playing golf for nearly 3 years now.

I joined Penrith GC in 2017 with a mate from school.

Starting handicap: 17.0 Current handicap: 2.6 Major Achievements in career: Making it to the next level of Major Pennants in my first year of playing with the team; Western Sydney Academy of Sport (WSAS) 2019 Golf ‘Athlete of the Year’; Winner of the Captains Bowl and the Silver Putter at Penrith GC; 2019 NSW Jack Newton Junior Golf Foundation (JNJG) State Age Championship Boys 17 years Plate Division Runner-Up; Penrith Valley Sports Foundation as the Senior Sportstar of the Month for May 2020; 2019 Junior Club Champion at Penrith GC; Winner 2018 Wollongong Junior Open.

What’s in the bag: Driver – Taylormade Sim @ 7°, hazardous smoke green x flex shaft (grip is the kangaroo leather grip master on all my clubs); 3wood – Taylormade m5 @14°, Tensei white x flex shaft; 2 iron – Titleist TMB with the KBS C-taper 120g shaft; 4i-Pw – Titleist 718 AP2 with KBS C-taper 120g shaft 51°, 55°, 59° - Taylormade Hi-Toe wedges with the KBS C-taper 120g shafts; Putter – Taylormade Spider Tour Putter in red (no sightline version); Taylormade TP5-X Ball; Adidas CODECHAOS BOA gold shoes; FJ StaSof Glove.

Future aspirations: To continue playing golf and lowering my handicap until I am satisfied.

Favourite club in the bag: Driver Biggest highlight of your career so far. Longest recorded drive @ 366m wind assisted.

Penrith Panthers in purrfect position

PENRITH PANTHERS

mark with MARK GEYER

Brent Naden the victim of vulgarity

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he Panthers historic 9th victory in a row last Friday night against the Warriors has been totally overshadowed by an act of vulgarity by a bunch of ‘supporters’ in the crowd at Central Coast stadium.

The target of the racial abuse was Penrith’s young tyro Brent Naden.

What was said to the flying outside back has not been made clear but it was enough to make Naden react instantly in calling the low-lifes out whilst on the field playing.

The police immediately evicted the group who have most certainly watched their last live game of rugby league.

We have come so far as a code, yet incidents like this one leave a dirty stain on the entire game. Rugby league is an enormously inclusive game played by all walks of life who celebrate their heritage every time they take the field, bravo to the NRL for its swift reaction in condemning the disgusting act and also in the manner in which Brent Naden’s welfare was taken care of.

The ugly incident totally overshadowed what was a history making night for Ivan Cleary’s men.

The gritty win over the much improved Warriors was their 9th in a row, knocking off the 2003 Panthers impressive 8 in a row on their way to competition glory.

There’s an eerily ominous feel about this 2020 version of the Panther, and there’s no doubt they can definitely win this year’s competition. Their depth is deep, their skill level is right across the field, and their defence in

 Brent Naden the victim of vulgarity

the opening 20 minutes of each game is the comps best by a mile.

But perhaps the most impressive part of this current journey is the fact that 12 of the 17 players in the first grade team have come through the Panthers pathways program.

Awesome!

Then when you add that both Billy Kikau and Josh Mansour, who both came to Penrith as lower graders

made their first grade debuts here, plus 3 players in this current team who have all tasted premiership nirvana in Tamou, Koroisau and Tetavano, you have a melting pot of just about the perfect mix of footballers you can have when trying to obtain the ultimate success.

Last Friday night’s game will be remembered for lots of reasons both good and bad. A line has been drawn

in the sand that zero tolerance will be given to so-called supporters of our game who shout obscenities at any player on the field.

Meanwhile the Panther’s own invisible line of expectation continues to rise rapidly as they continue their season of excellence.

See you at the game.

MG (random Westie) OAM

Nepean News 20 August 2020 Issue 284

on the

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