Nepeannews 21june2018

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ISSUE 229

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Big chill

Photo: Hilary Nathan Media

As the cold weather sets in, it is important to remember that our pets feel the cold too! Check out the tips from local Petbarn stores and Greencross Coreen Avenue Vets on how best to ensure your pet stays warm this winter. P15

“Boobonza�by Helen Smith

local news

he countdown is on for the new $24.6 million Innovation Centre at St Clair High School, with the basketball courts and recreational space now completed.

Member for Mulgoa, Tanya Davies MP joined Acting Principal Sally Smithard to officially open the new basketball courts.

“When a devastating fire destroyed 80 per cent of the school back in 2014, I made a commitment that the St Clair High School would be rebuilt and be even bigger and better than it was before,” Tanya Davies said.

“It is fantastic to officially open the brand new basketball courts, as well as the new recreational space and outdoor amphitheatre.”

“At the last election I promised the St Clair High School would be rebuilt, and I am proud to stand here today having delivered for the students and community of St Clair.”

Work on the $24.6 million Innovation Centre continues to forge ahead with internal classroom fit outs and furniture layout testing currently taking place. Additional funding was also secured for air-conditioning in every classroom.

St Clair High School Acting Principal Sally Smithard said the students at St Clair High School have been eagerly anticipating the new basketball courts.

“The students have been waiting a long time

Nepean News 21 June 2018 Issue 229

Back from the ashes T

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Worship and Communion Sunday 9:30am

Programmes Children’s Church (Primary) Enthuse (Young Adults) Wednesday Fellowship • Monthly Healing & Revival

Contact: (02) 9673 1009

www.newhorizonschurch.org.au

to access the new courts and when they were opened at recess there was a loud cheer from all the students,” Sally Smithard said.

“You couldn’t wipe the smiles off our keen basketballers and their PDHPE teachers.”

“As a school we are so proud of the resilience our students and community has shown in ensuring only the best was built for our current students and future students of St Clair.”

Prue Car MP Member for Londonderry

Ph: 9833 1122 154 Queen Street, St Marys londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au

Giving Hope Today Sunday Worship

10:00 AM

Boy’s and Girl’s SAGALA (Similar to Scouts)

6:00 PM Monday

Women’s Meeting

10:30 AM Thursday

(Dedications, Wedding or Funerals by appointment) 48 Luttrell St Glenmore Park P: 02 47331133 W: www.salvos.org.au/penrith E: salvospenrith@gmail.com

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From the Editor’s Desk

Nepean News 21 June 2018 Issue 229

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

Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644 Bart Bassett 0412 955 745 Larry Davis 0432 062 643 Conner Lowe 0404 419 346 Stewart Moses 0417 680 533 Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893 Hilary Nathan Media 0402 841 434 Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown nepeannews@aol.com www.wsnewsgroup.com

By KeRRIE DAVIES

T

HE bitterly cold winter nights have certainly set in now, and the old ice pic is needed to get your car out of the driveway each morning.

As you jump in your nice warm bed tonight on your warm fluffy pillows, switching on your electric blanket if you have one, or pulling the ultrathick doona right up to your eyeballs so that only your eyebrows feel cold, spare a thought for our homeless people.

In these freezing conditions, they are likely sleeping on cold concrete or grass, with a piece of cardboard for warmth.

And if you’ve gone out and purchased new bright pink floral ten-inch thick bedding for the winter, how about donating the old bed covers to a collection point for our homeless.

Thick winter jackets, beanies, gloves, socks and tinned hot meals are all things that will come in handy to those who don’t have the comfort we have to come home to.

There are so many local charities across our large region that will pass on the goods for you, or contact us if you’d like to know your nearest drop off spot.

If ever there’s a time where The Haves should step up and help The Have Nots it is during the coldest months of the year.

Nepean News is not tossed onto your front lawn. Collect your crisp copy FREE from local newsagents, service stations, libraries, Council and shopping centres.

Call 9834 5579 to find out your nearest outlet.

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Cancer strikes pets too Cancer is a word that no pet owner wants to hear. However, cancer is a term that can mean a lot of different things. Tumour and neoplasia are other words commonly used to describe cancers. Cancers can be broadly divided into being either benign or malignant.

Benign cancers are generally slow growing noninvasive cancers, that do not spread to other tissues.

Whereas malignant cancers are rapidly growing, invasive to surrounding tissues and can spread to other areas in the body through the blood or lymph system.

How is cancer diagnosed? Diagnostic testing depends on the location of the cancer. Fine needle aspirates remove a small number of cells using a needle and syringe. Lumps on or under the skin can often be easily sampled in a conscious animal.

Cancers within the organs may be sampled with ultrasound guidance, but often requires sedation or anaesthesia. Aspirates can enable us to know if surgery is required and what surgical margins are required. Aspirates will not always give enough information for complete diagnosis and surgical biopsy may be advised.

Surgical biopsy involves surgically removing the cancer and sending the entire lump for histopathology.

Surgical biopsy is often a better option if lumps are

small enough to be removed entirely or are not in a location that allows aspiration like the mouth or ear.

Do only malignant cancers need to be surgically removed? Depending on the cancer it may not be possible to determine if a cancer is benign or malignant until it is surgically removed. Slow growing lumps can still affect quality of life especially if they become ulcerated, infected, are painful or are in locations that affect mobility.

The benefit of a surgical biopsy is that the cancer can be removed, the cancer can be graded and the surgical margins can be assessed. In a lot of cases surgical biopsy and lump removal can remove the cancer entirely and surgical treatment is curative.

Some cancers start in areas like the mouth, bones or body organs. Depending on the location aggressive surgery may be required like limb amputation or removal of some or all of an organ.

What is grading? Once a cancer is surgically removed a pathologist can determine what type of cancer it is and whether it is benign or malignant.

If a cancer is malignant it can be further classified by grading. A high-grade cancer is generally more aggressive, more likely to have spread to other tissues and more likely to regrow despite surgical removal.

Survival rates are lower the higher a cancer is graded.

Different grading systems are used for different types of cancer.

What is metastasis? Metastasis refers to the spread of cancer cells to other tissues in the body. In dogs and cats, they are most likely to spread to the local lymph nodes and the lungs.

What is cancer screening? Cancer screening refers to tests that assess for metastasis. Radiographs of the chest assess the lungs. Ultrasound assesses the organs and internal lymph nodes. Aspirates of external lymph nodes if they are enlarged assess for local spread. With cancers that are known to be aggressive like mammary cancers, mast cell tumours and bone cancers screening is advised before surgery.

What if surgery is not possible, the entire cancer is not removed with surgery and/or the cancer has already metastasised? Referral to veterinary oncologists to assess the suitability for chemotherapy and radiation can be arranged. Palliative care may be indicated if patients are not candidates for surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. Palliative care is aimed at keeping the patient as comfortable as possible for as long as possible.

Coreen Avenue Veterinary Clinic Units 2 & 3/117 Coreen Ave, Penrith NSW 2750

Phone 47 313 055

local news

enrith Council has opened Expressions of Interest for the second round of the innovative DiG Space Program, following the success of the pilot program earlier this year.

Council is looking for multi-disciplinary digital artists and designers who are within the first five years of professional practice. The program is open to people who have completed a relevant diploma or degree within the last five years, and who either live, work, study or were born in Blacktown, Hills, Fairfield, Cumberland, Parramatta, Bankstown, Blue Mountains, Hawkesbury, Liverpool or Penrith areas.

Penrith Mayor Cr John Thain said the experience gained through this unique 16-week residency and mentorship program is unparalleled.

“This program gives local artists the opportunity to create pathways, learn new skills, develop networks and work on a live creative collaboration project,” Cr Thain said.

“Creative industries are important to the local community and play a positive role in contributing to social cohesion and shaping individuals and regions.

“More than ever before creativity is being embraced by individuals, society and employers.

Council is delighted to be leading the charge in the development of creative industries in Western Sydney,” Cr Thain continued.

The second round program runs from 3 September – 21 December 2018.

The DiG Space Program showcases the breadth and quality of talented creatives we have in our

David Seager J.P. DIP in Business

LENDING MANAGER

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M 0411 107 776 P 4733 4200 F 02 4733 4288 E enquiries@seagerfinance.com.au Shop 2/2-6 Castlereagh Street, Penrith NSW 2750 PO Box 8149, Glenmore Park NSW 2745

Stuart Ayres MP Member for Penrith

region, and highlights the economic value of supporting creative enterprises in Western Sydney.

Expressions of Interest are open until 6pmSunday 15 July 2018. Details about the program and the application forms are available on Council’s website: penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/Culture-Creativity The DiG Digital Maker Space project is funded

by Create NSW. Council also receives support from project partners - Western Sydney University, TAFE NSW and the Penrith Performing & Visual Arts (PP&VA).

Phone: 4722 8660 Email: penrith@parliament.nsw.gov.au Shop 23, Tattersalls Centre, 510-534 High Street, Penrith

Nepean News 21 June 2018 Issue 229

DiG Space Program P

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Parking right behind in Judges Car Park!

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local news

By CONNER LOWE

M

any athletes retire from the international stage towards the end of their careers, however for Karl Preuss he is still charging on at the age of 89.

He will be competing in the 90’s category when he travels to Las Vegas to play in the World Veteran Championships for table tennis, where he will be Australia’s oldest competitor.

Karl has been playing the sport his whole life and began playing in the Veteran Championships since 2004 in Yokohama, Japan.

Karl spoke about where he began playing table tennis and what about the sport keeps him competing at his age.

“I started playing as a young man in Germany, then I had a 22-year break when I migrated to Australia with my wife and baby daughter and grew my family then continued playing when I moved to Penrith, competing in the Quinine Shield for Panthers and moved onto other tournaments as well,” he said.

“I’ve been in too many to count, local, national and international tournaments throughout the years.

I still compete for the challenge, physical exercise and friendships I’ve made locally, throughout Australia and all over the world.

“There are approximately 4000 veterans competing every two years in a different country, I started in the World Veterans in 2004 in Yokohama, Japan.”

In 2014 when competing in the World Veteran Championships Karl placed third in New Zealand.

The championships have over 4000 competitors every two years and to finish third is a remarkable achievement.

In his last championships over in Spain, he was the oldest competitor in the over 80’s category which is a significant change, to become one of the youngest competitors in the over 90’s category in Las Vegas.

Karl also spoke about his battle with illness in the last year and his plans to stay fit to continue competing in the future.

“The last year has been difficult with illness. I had a knee replacement which went wrong and treatment for my cancer. The challenge and extreme love I have for table tennis and all it entails, drives me on despite

the obstacles,” he said.

“I am excited to be competing in the over 90’s in Las Vegas next week.

“My plans for the future is to continue with table tennis and get fit, stay healthy and hopefully play in the next World Veteran Championships in two years in France.”

Despite his battles with cancer and having open heart surgery only two years ago, Karl continues to play table tennis and will compete in the World Veteran Championships for as long as he can. We would like to wish Karl all the best in Las Vegas and for the future.

Nepean News 21 June 2018 Issue 229

Veteran to represent Australia in Las Vegas

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Nepean News 21 June 2018 Issue 229

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local news

Our city’s finest recognised in the Queen’s gongs

By KeRRIE DAVIES & CONNER LOWE

K

AREN McKeown, Penrith Councillor and Labor Candidate for Penrith, has been touted as a role model for women across the region since her feet first hit the ground running on the political landscape.

Cr McKeown was one of four Penrith locals who were named as recipients of the Order Of Australia Medal (OAM) as part of the the Queen’s Birthday 2018 Honours List.

Her work, in advocating for women, as well as service to local government, has earned her the recognition she deserves.

“I was really surprised and honoured because I know it is not something that is given lightly,” Cr McKeown said.

“I am quite chuffed really! You don’t do things expecting to be recognised, but it is quite nice when you are, and I have received lovely messages from all sides of politics.”

When asked to look back over the things she has achieved, Cr McKeown said the things she was most proud of were her achievements with the multi-cultural community, sustainability and advocating for women.

“I’d have to say doing things that ensure a lighter footprint on the planet has been a particular highlight. I’m also proud that advocating for women is in everything that I do, there isn’t enough women in local government and we really can do better,” she said.

It’s an incredible achievement to be awarded an Order of Australia Medal and Marina Laverty has also been awarded this great honour for her dedication in Hockey since 1973.

Marina began playing hockey at the 11-years-old for the Canterbury Hockey Association. To this day Marina is a live member of the Canterbury Women’s Hockey Association and Revesby Workers Hockey Club.

Throughout her playing days Marina played for Canterbury Hockey Association, Revesby Workers and Rooty Hill. Marina also represented the Canterbury Women’s Hockey at Opens and Masters, Parramatta Women’s Hockey for Juniors and Opens and Nepean Hockey Association in indoor Masters and Photo: Hilary Nathan Media Opens.

Marina has coached at many clubs since playing she coached at Canterbury Women’s Hockey Association, Parramatta Women’s Hockey and Nepean Hockey Association both at club level and representative level.

Marina spoke about her involvement with the hockey community and what she plans to do for the sport in the future.

“I love the game for what it is, I worked at Hockey NSW in Development, which gave me a lot of please seeing kids and adults playing the game for the first time and then to see them at a State Championships,” she said.

“My plan for the future is to assist with development and help where ever I can to keep the sport going.”

Marina has now been involved with the Nepean Hockey Association for 17-years organising many coaching clinics, as well as coaching many teams throughout the years.

Marina also spoke about how she felt to receive the Order of Australia Medal and the people she would like to thank.

“I felt overwhelmed, surprised, proud and thankful for the people who nominated me and went through the whole process. It’s really just a great honour,” she said.

“No, I never expected to receive such an award. I just do what I do, it’s hard to put in words, but I’m a proud Australian who also served in the Reserves for 20 years, so I understand honour and respect.

“I want to thank the people who nominated me, my daughters who were dragged to many events on cold wet mornings and many late training nights. It’s was not easy on them, but I’m very proud of Jemma-Mae and Jaaz Laverty and yes they do play!”

Mr Wayne Robert Brennan of Cranebrook, was awarded his OAM for services to rugby league, in particular the Cambridge Park Cranebrook Junior Rugby League Football Club, and to touch football with the Penrith Touch Association.

Ms Catherine Anne Kerr, of Emu Plains, was awarded her OAM for service to softball, firstly as a player who represented both NSW and Australia, before going on to serve in numerous coaching and administrative roles culminating with her position as General Manager, Softball NSW since 2002.

Congratulations to our dedicated citizens!

local news

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inalists in the 2018 Sydney Markets Fresh Awards have been announced, revealing the greater west is home to four of the freshest green grocers, growers and florists from across NSW and the ACT. Penrith is home to four of the finalists, with Golden Growers, Maries Bella Zucchini Flowers, Allflowers. com.au and Plumpton Fruit World being announced as finalists.

The Fresh Awards are run by Sydney Markets to recognise and encourage best practice and innovations in fresh produce and flower retailing and growing.

The awards are judged by industry experts as well as anonymous local mystery shoppers who visited the businesses over a 6-month period.

Nominees were judged on areas such as store appearance, customer service, produce quality, range and freshness.

Sydney Markets’ Fresh Awards Manager, Sue Dodd, said the finalists

have demonstrated an incredible commitment to both quality and service.

“These small businesses are at the heart of our local communities,” Ms Dodd said.

“They continue to thrive by providing their customers with the finest quality produce, excellent service, a personal touch and a high level of expertise.”

“Penrith is extremely fortunate to be home to four of the finest green grocers, growers and florists in NSW and the ACT.” Winners will be announced during an award ceremony at The Star in Sydney on Wednesday 25th of July 2018. Australian journalist and television personality Chris Bath will act as Master of Ceremonies on the night, overseeing the awards.

Sydney Markets CEO, Brad Latham, said the Fresh Awards are a great source of pride for Sydney Markets, offering a comprehensive program

that supports retail excellence and recognises the passion and hard work of fresh produce and flower retailers and growers from NSW and the ACT. Sydney Markets is home to the Sydney Produce Market, Sydney Flower Market and Sydney Growers Market. Supplied by over 20,000 local

and interstate growers, more than 700 businesses call the Sydney Markets home, selling fresh fruit, vegetables and cut flowers to florists, fruit retailers and consumers.

For further information about the 2018 Fresh Awards, visit www.freshawards.com.au

Ayres: Western Sydney big winner in NSW Budget

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inister for Western Sydney and MP for Penrith, Stuart Ayres says people across Western Sydney are big winners in NSW Budget 2018 with the engine room of the NSW economy getting a turbocharged injection of billions of dollars for health, education and infrastructure projects.

Mr Ayres said the 2018-19 Budget would continue to drive growth, create jobs and enhance opportunity for the more than two million people who call the region home.

“No longer taken for granted, no longer second best, this budget reinforces that Western Sydney is now leading the way when it comes to the NSW economy,” Mr Ayres said.

“This Budget matches a growing Western Sydney with the jobs, infrastructure and essential services required to continue to increase prosperity and opportunities for local residents.”

Key highlights from the 2018-19 Budget include: $2.4 billion in 2018-19 for Sydney Metro Northwest – Australia’s first

fully-automated metro rail system scheduled to commence in the first half of 2019; $3 billion reserved for Metro West planning and early procurement – the third line of the Metro system that connects Parramatta to Sydney CBD through Olympic Park and the Bays Precinct; $258 million towards Parramatta Light Rail Stage 1 to support growth in Western Sydney, create new communities and connect places.

(Crosses Sydney Metropolitan Region); $183.7 million in 2018-19 on Western Sydney Stadium (with an estimated total cost of $360.0 million).

Construction has commenced on the grandstands and the project is on track for completion in the first half of 2019; $240 million in 2018-19 ($640.0 million total Government contribution) to relocate the Powerhouse Museum at Parramatta and, expand storage at the Museum Discovery Centre; · $5.6 million in 2018-19 to

continue the Western Sydney Parklands park improvement program to activate and link of the Northern and Southern Parklands, improve play and recreational areas, and restore and expand the bushland corridor; · $188.5 million for Stage 1 of the Westmead Hospital Redevelopment, at an estimated total cost of $765.0 million; · $20 million for Stage 2 of the Campbelltown Hospital Redevelopment (including the Mental Health and South West Paediatric services), at an estimated total cost of $632.0 million; · $90 million for Stage 1 and Stage 2 of the Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospital redevelopment, at an estimated total cost of $659.2 million; · $70 million for the Nepean Hospital and integrated ambulatory services, at an estimated total cost of $550 million with a further commitment to Stage 2; The Western Sydney LHD will receive total recurrent funding in excess of $1.7 billion in 2018-19; · $20 million in 2018-19 towards

planning for Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2; · $25 million over 4 years for project development, to deliver a final business case and undertake consultation for the construction of a Hawkesbury River crossing from Richmond to North Richmond, and; · $35 million in 2018-19 to develop the final business case for the NorthSouth Rail Line to service the new Western Sydney Airport (includes Commonwealth Government contributions).

Londonderry MP Prue Car was quick to respond pointing out items that she says should have been in the Budget.

Among the items Ms Car listed were: • Jordan Springs Primary School • Claremont Meadows Public School upgrade • Kingswood High School upgrade • Penrith Public School upgrade • St Marys Station Commuter Carpark • Commuter Parking at Emu Plains station

Nepean News 21 June 2018 Issue 229

Local businesses announced as some of the freshest

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Nepean News 21 June 2018 Issue 229

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local news

Escape the everyday and explore a world of fantasy

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t Winterfest Sydney Medieval Fair, enter a medieval realm which brings the settings of Game of Thrones and Lord of the Rings to life!

Escape the everyday and explore a world of history and fantasy at this popular familyfriendly fair. From knights, vikings and peasants to unicorns and orcs, the two-day event features an extensive program to delight the whole family.

Winterfest is one of the longest-running annual medieval fairs in the Sydney metro region, held on the first weekend of the winter school holidays, 7th and 8th of July, at the Hawkesbury Showground, between Richmond & Windsor.

Immerse yourself in the action with a wonderful line-up of entertainment, including: The exciting Winterfest Jousting Tournament: see the face-off between champions in the sport of kings!

Full Contact Fighting: The best from Australia and New Zealand compete in the Historical Medieval Battles (HMB) tournament for selection to represent their country in the Battle of the Nations World Championships!

Graceful and powerful raptors fly free in the Full Flight Birds of Prey display. Learn about birds of prey in Australia and the history of falconry.

Melee Battles with knights in armour from a range of historical periods. Watch the groups battle for

supremacy in the ‘Combat and Arms’ display, which concludes with the ‘Grand Melee’!

The Mounted Skill-at-Arms, demonstrating the skills required for knights in training and for battle.

The Re-enactors’s Row, where you can try helmets, armour, shields and weapons. Friendly re-enactors from the dark ages through to the 17th century enjoy sharing their knowledge about the people and period they are re-enacting.

Have a go at hands-on activities including a traditional archery range, Celtic drumming workshops, and the chance to learn to use a rapier.

Children can practice their skills with (safe) swords and get creative with medieval themed drawing, colouring and crafts. The popular Winterfest unicorns

are back, and they love pats from you and the kids.

Visit the ‘Artisan Alley’ with lots of educational and interactive displays of traditional skills, and take a stroll through the ‘Merchant’s Row’ to browse the vibrant range of stalls including quality artisan and handcrafted wares.

Roaming entertainers add to the festival atmosphere, including musicians and minstrels, and ‘Feldergast the Fool’ the wandering jester.

There is face-painting for the children and a great selection of quality food vendors to choose from.

Immerse yourself in the festival environment by wearing something a bit different from the usual. The Winterfest Costume and Cosplay competition returns in 2018. Join the competition parade for judging, or if that’s not your thing, you may be surprised with an on-the-spot prize. Come along in a medieval-inspired outfit or fantasy-style clothing; all medieval periods, cultures, and styles are welcome.

With so much to do, explore and discover, Winterfest is perfect school holiday family entertainment.

Tickets are now on sale through ticketebo.com. au/winterfest. Pre-purchase your tickets now to take advantage of exclusive online discounts.

For more information about Winterfest, please visit winterfest.com.au and ‘like’ us at facebook.com/ WinterfestSydney.

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Legends of the Nepean Bob Bell

By Noel Rowsell

 84-year old Bob Bell showcasing his deft skills on the tennis court.

Photos courtesy of Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

A sporting regime of tennis three times per week and golf three times per week would be a challenge many might not be able to accomplish.

This seemingly arduous schedule is however a weekly routine for 84-year old Bob Bell, who adds in Golden Oldies Rugby Union as an added extra.

A former Fitter & Turner with Clyde Engineering, Bob has been heavily involved in sport during his entire lifetime, firstly with Rugby League, then Tennis and eventually into Rugby Union.

A chance conversation with a ‘Pommie’ Engineer saw Bob move to northern NSW as a young man, in both a playing and a coaching role with Rugby League.

A four-year stint with Glenreagh (located between Coffs Harbour and Grafton) resulted in four grand finals and three premiership titles, before legendary Panthers stalwart Merv Cartwright invited Bob back to

Sydney to coach and play at Penrith.

Bob played with the Panthers in A Grade and also coached Reserve Grade, when Penrith was playing District Football.

The local District encompassed Richmond, Liverpool and Parramatta (among many others) and was the precursor to Penrith’s entry to the NRL. Bob’s final year as a player was at Blacktown, incredibly at the ripe old age of 48.

He decided enough was enough and there wasn’t any more fun in being pummelled on the field.

A subsequent move into Tennis with wife and best friend Barbara would see him fully committed to the sport, playing competitively for fortyplus years.

A resident of Leonay for the past fifty-nine years, Bob took up Rugby Union in 1984, competing in the Golden Oldies (over 35’s) with the ‘Penrith Legless Emus’.

Over the next thirty-four years, Bob travelled the world to eighteen Golden Oldies tournaments, including New Zealand (4 times), France, England,

Bob Bell was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Laurie Berrisford.

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

 The Penrith Legless Emus and Bathurst Central West Bulls players in a combined photo at the Golden Oldies Tournament held in Christchurch, New Zealand earlier this year”. Photo courtesy of the Penrith Legless Emus Club.

Scotland, Ireland, South Africa, Canada (2), USA, Argentina, Japan and four in Australia.

The Rugby trips would also serve as bi-annual holidays for Bob and Barbara, who would spend up to seven weeks overseas enjoying the countries of the respective tournaments.

Bob’s world turned upside down ten years ago when he lost both the love of his life and best friend Barbara – a loss that still impacts visibly upon him to this day.

Bob’s enthusiasm for multiple sports is obviously keeping him fit, young at heart and healthy.

His club-mates in his varied sports have become accustomed to Bob playing one sport in the morning, then heading off to play another sport in the afternoon.

Bob was keen to plug the ‘Penrith Legless Emus’ and their search for new players for Golden Oldies Rugby, with the next overseas tournament to be held in Denver, Colorado in 2020.

35-59 years – CLUB SHORTS OR RED SHORTS: Players wear red shorts in matches involving this age group to indicate that they do not want to be tackled to the ground or pushed off their feet. A player in red shorts may be “claimed and held” in the spirit of Golden Oldies Rugby but NOT tackled to the ground.

60-64 years – RED SHORTS: Can be claimed and held. Must not be taken to the ground in a tackle.

65-69 years - GOLD SHORTS: Not to be tackled or touched. May run with the ball for up to 15 metres in total before passing to a team-mate

wearing club shorts or red shorts.

70-79 years - PURPLE SHORTS: Not to be tackled or touched. May

run with the ball for up to 15 metres in total before passing to a team-mate wearing club shorts or red shorts.

80+ years – SPECIAL COMMITTEE SHORTS: Not to be tackled or touched. May run with the ball for up to 15 metres in total before passing to a team mate wearing club shorts or red shorts.

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local news

W

hen was the last time you walked the CBD and discovered the many hidden treasures that make up the uniqueness of High Street? The CBD is changing rapidly due to Greater Western Sydney being the fastest growing region in Australia and Penrith and the CBD centre is ready to receive a growing level in day and night time trade.

Penrith CBD Corp has been speaking and working directly with property and shop owners prior and during the upgrade to support them and broaden their exposure, and to give them the best tools and skills so they can make their business as successful as possible. Upon talking to the property and shop owners, they emanate a sense of pride when describing what they do and why.

During this upgrade and construction, it’s a great time to discover and support your local businesses and even find other shops that you did not know existed.

Did you know that there are seventeen arcades within the CBD? Whether you need costumes or cakes, pet accessories or specialty spices, the CBD centre has everything you need and more. The benefit of shopping at a small business is that as a customer

High Street construction and upgrade

you get a personalised service and in depth knowledge since the owner is more often than not the operator.

Local businesses give a community its unique flavour. By choosing to shop local, you are preserving what makes Penrith, Penrith.

Even though High St is undergoing a facelift to ensure the Penrith Community has a beautiful and successful city centre, it has produced

some challenges for the businesses that are at the coalface of construction.

This is why the community’s patronage is so important to keeping their doors open and thriving during and well after the upgrade has been completed. They are the backbone of Penrith’s day time economy and the ever increasing night time trade. The CBD Corp sees the importance of this and is heavily involved in creating

opportunities that will benefit the local businesses in the long term.

The future of Penrith and its CBD is exciting, so taking the time to visit a shop that you usually walk past, or strolling through an arcade to uncover a hidden gem will give small business owners to keep their dreams and doors open for years to come.

Nepean pets prepare for big chill

P

etbarn Penrith Coreen Avenue and Petbarn Penrith Homemaker Centre provide their top tips on keeping your fourlegged friends warm during the colder months.

Humans aren’t the only ones who struggle with the cold during winter months. This is why Petbarn are reminding locals to keep a close eye on their pet’s wellbeing as the temperature drops particularly certain breeds of dog, cats and other small animals such as Guinea pigs and fish.

Last year, the Sydney Metropolitan region reached an average minimum temperature of 6.8oC 1 over winter, with this in mind, Petbarn Penrith are encouraging local pet owners to be vigilant in taking extra care of their pets this coming cold season.

“As members of the family, pets also need protection from the harsh frosty months,” Petbarn Penrith Coreen Avenue Store Manager, Emily Dewhurst said.

“Petbarn provides all the winter necessities to ensure that pets of all shapes and sizes are kept snuggly all winter along.”

Rachel Chay, Greencross’ Chief Veterinary Officer, offers the following tips to keep your pet happy, warm and rugged up this chilly winter season: • Cover up your four-legged friend – If your pet is outside during a

Photo: Hilary Nathan Media

temperature drop, they will feel the cold just like we do, and the best way to keep them warm is to get them in a jacket or coat. The effect the cold has on your pet is determined by factors such as their species, breed, age and general health. For example, shorthaired dogs such as Jack Russells and Whippets, lean breeds with low body fat like greyhounds, young puppies that have yet to develop body fat and dogs older than seven are particularly susceptible to the cold and would benefit from a doggy jacket.

• Winter-proof their sleeping quarters – Many small animals find it difficult to keep themselves warm without extra insulation, such as birds and mice. Guinea pigs, for example, struggle when the cold drops under

18oC 2 . To keep the cold out of their cages - drape blankets, fleece, or cardboard over their cages to provide shelter from the chill of the winter air.

If that doesn’t keep these adorable critters warm, pop in a blanket or towel to burrow into and keep warm during the cooler months.

• Be extra mindful with senior pets - Once dogs and cats reach the age of seven, they are classed as senior citizens and can be painfully affected by the cold weather. During winter, one of the most common ailments we see in senior pets is arthritis as their sensitive joints are aggravated by cooler temperatures. Older pets should be kept off the cold ground and be kept comfortable with extra warm and padded bedding.

• If possible keep your pets inside – If it’s too cold for us to be outside, then it’s likely it is too cold for our pets. If your pet is ‘outside only’ ensure they have proper housing with raised bedding and protection from cold draughts. A warm basket, heated bed or microwave heat pad will also help your pet cope with the cold.

• Don’t overfeed your pet – As winter sets in, you may notice your pet’s appetite increases as they are burning more energy to keep warm.

It’s important Nepean pet owners keep an eye on their pet’s weight to ensure they are satisfied, but not overfed, as this can be detrimental to their health.

• Regular exercise is crucial – Although you may want to stay indoors during the cooler months, it is important to continue exercising your pet. If it is a particularly frosty day, it is recommended to dress your pet in a light coat.

• Avoid over-grooming – Maintaining a good grooming regime is crucial in winter. Try to avoid shaving or cutting our pet’s hair too short as the longer fur provides an extra layer to keep them warm.

Petbarn offer a wide range of cosy beds, snuggly knits, jackets, hi-vis gear for those dark winter nights and accessories to keep your pet looking warm and stylish this season.

Nepean News 21 June 2018 Issue 229

Discover Penrith CBD – Love local

15

WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR

HOME

WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR

HOME

Warm up for winter

Nepean News 21 June 2018 Issue 229

W

ith new climate records being set throughout Australia each year, choosing the right air conditioning solution will turn your home or office into an oasis of comfort, all day, every day. Wizard Air Services provides quality Air Conditioning solutions to customers throughout the Sydney Metropolitan region covering all aspects of the industry.

They can support you with sales, preventative maintenance, repairs and installation.

When it comes to heating and cooling your home or office, Wizard Air Services are the air conditioning specialists. It’s all they do and they’re here to help you choose the very best system that’s just right for you. They

17

work with brands like Daikin, Fujitsu, Mitsubishi, Actron Air, Panasonic and more.

Wizard Air Services is an Australian based company established in Sydney.

Their service team have over 20 years of fault finding experience between them. All their technicians are fully qualified and can design and construct any type of system from domestic systems to commercial multi-storey buildings. They have built upon a core business ethic of value for money and ongoing efficiencies through sound engineering and design practices.

Escape the chill and stay warm this winter! Let Wizard Air take your heating and cooling experience to the next level.

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Nepean News 21 June 2018 Issue 229

18

ENTERTAINMENT

Winter workshops

D

igital animation, charcoal drawing, clay modelling and hanging mobiles are all on offer this July School Holidays at Penrith Regional Gallery.

Find it, Paste it, Poster it (Monday 16 July 10 – 12) is a workshop for children aged 5-9, dedicated to exploring a multitude of craft ideas.

Students will work together using paper, magazines and glue to compose a carefully layered and coloured landscape inspired by the artwork of artist Kate Shaw. InExploding Animations (Tuesday 17 July 10 – 12), children 7 years and older will be able to create a short animation using the Gallery iPads to promote a positive environmental message and kick off their digital content career with a bang. Cost: $30 per workshop.

Bubble Wrap Trees (Wednesday 18 July 10-12) is a workshop great for children with a disability. This sensory art experience will stimulate

the imagination as participants explore the textures in the fabulous Gallery garden before concluding artmaking with paint, bubble wrap, paper and a variety of other materials in the studios. At just $25 a session, carers and parents attend free.

But now it’s time to get messy!

Clay Landscapes says it all in the name – participants aged 7-11 will use their hands and imagination to sculpt, carve and mould clay into a 3D landscape. Thursday 19 July.

Cost: $30 All skill levels welcome.

Wear old clothes and bring a snack.

AUSTRALIA’S HOTTEST FOOTY MODEL SEARCH

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AUSTRALIA V IRELAND

RUGBY UNION TEST MATCH SERIES Saturday 23rd June

8pm - Sports Lounge

1 game all

don’t miss the decider!

Watch @ Penrith Gaels and receive Free Magners Beanie WHILE STOCKS LAST

STATE OF ORIGIN SUNDAY JUNE 24TH WEDNESDAY JULY 11TH Local Beers at Happy Hour Prices during game Best seats in the house

Win

Tickets $2 each or 3 for $5 available at Club.

Drawn day before each Origin.

STATE OF ORIGIN JERSEY

Free ticket when drink purchased during origin series and drawn at completion of game 3. Only 1 Jumper to be won.

Starring

EMMA KIRK and her internationally acclaimed live band

INCLUDING SONGS FROM ADELE’S NEW

album 25

Saturday 30 JUNE 8pm ~ Tickets now on sale at Club $25 Members, $30 Non Members

Shamrock Grill SPECIALS

LUNCH 12 - 2.30pm - LUNCH SPECIALS $10 MONDAY Schnitzel Night $12.50 TUESDAY Steak & Ale Night $15 WEDNESDAY Coffee & Cake $8.50 THURSDAY Kids Eat FREE (conditions apply) SUNDAY - Sunday Roast $17.50 Members $18.50 Non Members

FREE ENTERTAINMENT FRIDAY 22 JUNE 8PM SHOWPONY

FRIDAY 29 JUNE 8PM 2 WAY SPLIT

SUNDAY 1 JULY 3.30PM BANTER

SUNDAY 1 JULY 5PM SOUL JAMZ

ENTERTAINMENT

20 Nepean News 21 June 2018 Issue 229

Arsenic and Old Lace

Ukulele lessons

S

trum away and groove to your favourites with guitar lessons at Penrith Conservatorium!

Tune up your electric guitar, plug in your amp and groove to the music!

Or is acoustic your guitar of choice?

Bring along your instrument and learn from our fantastic teachers who will help you reach your musical potential.

Accompany yourself (or a better singer!) to the likes of Jason Mraz (I’m Yours) on the ukulele. Or create your own Polynesian sounds.

While you’re at it, why not add to your mix with some bass guitar

lessons? The possibilities are endless – you’ll become a rockstar in no time!

If classical guitar is your cup of tea, they’ve got you covered, never fear!

The Penrith Conservatorium of Music is the premiere place for music lessons in Western Sydney. Whether you’d like to learn for leisure, learn to write a song, or determined to become the next piano prodigy, their quality teachers will bring out the best in you.

The proven preferred delivery method for music lessons, the one-to-one nature allows the class to be tailored to you – your learning style, pace and preferences.

Phone: 4723 7611 Email: conservatorium@penrith. city

A

rsenic and Old Lace is one of the finest comedies of multiple murder and was the play that put black comedy well and truly back on the theatrical map. It tells the story of two charming and gentle old ladies who poison their poor, orphan lodgers to save them from the sorrows of this world.

This production is being directed

by Leonay local Anthony Brown.

“Who can ever forget the classic film of this which starred Cary Grant,” Mr. Brown said.

“As a young boy I recall watching the film and laughing so much.”

Mr. Brown says he has a very professional team of both actors and crew who have all worked hard to

create a fun filled stage production not to be missed.

“We have a brilliant set which has been designed by Stephen Donelan and incredible true period costumes by well known designer Leone Sharp, if you want a night to have a lot of laughs; then come watch this show.”

Ticket price is $25 for adults and $20 concession, $35 at the door.

To book tickets go to www.trybooking.com/291465 To reserve show only phone (02) 4735 5422.

“ARSENIC AND OLD LACE” will be performed at John Lees Centre, 15 Evan Street; Penrith. www.rubyproductions.com.au

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 A fragrant oleoresin (6) 4 Dubioius (8) 10 Luxurious (9) 11 Touches of the tongue (5) 12 Incentive (5) 13 Mixes drinks (9) 14 An easy victory (slang) (7) 16 Breastplate (4) 19 Male cow (4) 21 Swaggering show of

courage (7) 24 A reprieve in intensity (9) 25 Trophy (5) 26 A printed leaf or page (5) 27 Substance dependence (9) 28 Freedom from normal

restraints in conduct (8) 29 JFK’s assassin (6)

solution 7/6/18

DOWN 1 An American sport (8) 2 Radiant (8) 3 Initial wagers (5) 5 See (7) 6 Dancer (9) 7 Front of a building (6) 8 Sheen (6) 9 Wholesaler (6) 15 A dwelling on water (9) 17 Cathedral (8) 18 Ruled (8) 20 Away from the wind (7) 21 Befall (6) 22 A severe scolding (6) 23 A light medieval helmet (6) 25 Light kisses (5)

Thank you

“

Thank you to the stars for their fantastic performances and for the great turnout by the community at Penrith Paceway on June 9th. The feedback from those who attended has been fabulous.

The aim of these productions is to highlight up and coming young talent giving them the support they need to take them to the next level of their career.

There will be more of these productions showcasing new talent coming soon to Penrith Paceway.

�

Proceeds raised from the shows fund the Charities and Missions works of The Ross Hutchison Foundation

Nepean News 21 June 2018 Issue 229

23

NEPEAN HISTORY

The Legend of the Death Bird (Part 2)

By Jack Brook Blacktown and District Historical Society Continued from last edition....

T

he old man was enraged. He had completed the fulfillment of his desires for the beautiful young Wandah, and to thus be thwarted at the last minute roused the devils of his late ancestors in him, and he appealed to the chief for the tribal ordeal. The old chief tried to persuade Wandah to accept her destiny of marriage with the old man, but she refused and prepared for the ideal. Five spears were given to the old man, who was placed in a ring twelve paces from his intended victim, now standing alertly poised in front of a tree with a small shield on her arm.

Fearless, she faced him, her eyes noting his every movement. The first spear just grazed her shoulder, the next three she deftly side stepped, glancing them off with her shield. The old man’s aim was evidently suffering from his excitement and anger. He took more time with the last spear, which failing to ward off, entered the upper part of her left arm.

According to tribal law, Wandah was now free. But as her young lover went to her aid, the old man took up two more spears, plunging the first into the back of her lover and the other straight through the heart of Wandah, both fell dead as the enraged men of the tribe fell upon the old man whom they clubbed to death.

Wandah and her lover were buried near the banks of the creek, almost in line with where the old Bungarribee homestead once stood. From time to time, so runs the legend, the spirit of Wandah flies round the scene of her former life in the form of the death bird, which always heralds the approach of death of the descendants of her race, once the proud possessors of the hunting grounds of Bungarribee and Doonside.

After the death of Wandah and her lover Bomeree and the clubbing to death of their murderer by the young men of the tribe, there was much trouble in the camp between their near relations. It eventually came to a head and resulted in a general melee wherein several were killed and many wounded. When at last the chief managed to separate the warring factions he found himself left with only half his tribe, the relatives of the dead lovers having separated and moved off to the vicinity of the Hawkesbury River, never again to return to their former tribal companions.

Bungroo, the older chief of the Bungarribee tribe was greatly upset at the division of his people. It had left him with greatly diminished forces to meet the raids of neighboring tribes continually trespassing on his tribe’s hunting grounds. Many severe tribal fights resulted from these depredations. The chief was a mighty warrior of great renown amongst the surrounding tribes and noted for his great feats of strength and bravery in the frequent clashes with his neighbours. His tall muscular figure wielding his great club as he charged at the head of the opposing fighting men struck terror into the hearts of his enemies.

For many years he had been a terror to the would be raiders of his

hunting grounds, the major prize of which was the waterhole, which was later to become the location of Prospect Reservoir, then the home of many water fowl including wild ducks. This lagoon had for ages been a bone of contention between the Bungarribee tribe across the creek whose hunting grounds extended out west to the river, now know as the Nepean. The two tribes had for many years been deadly enemies and the river tribe was always on alert to accomplish the downfall of Bungaroo and his people.

Only the great fighting abilities of Bungaroo had kept them inside their own boundaries.

Bungarribee tribe members had noticed after the death of Wandah a strange bird had been seen flying around the district and at night when it was seen it was heard to emit pathetic mournful wailings as a child in distress. Following the visits of this bird there was a sickness and death amongst them and it became a belief amongst the tribe that if any of their number was sick and they heard birds wailing that the sick would die. The tribe accepted the bird’s presence as a curse upon them for the murder of Wandah and it struck terror into their hearts.

Several years after the problems in the Bungarribee tribe the River tribe again raided, defeated and killed many warriors including the chief Bungaroo. They took control of the waterway and made off with the Bungarribee women and children. The death bird had been seen and heard many times during the previous days and the Bungarribee tribe was expecting big trouble from somewhere.

The River tribe took the Bungarribee women and children and incorporated them into their own tribe. They also took ownership of Prospect Lagoon and it remained among their hunting grounds until the white man finally drove them from the district.

In this story of the death of the great chief Bungaroo and the massacre of the Bungarribee tribe we see fulfillment of the prevailing belief in the superstition regarding the appearance of the Death Bird. Since the death of Wandah this belief has foretold death and disaster to descendants of the Bungarribee tribe who roamed the district before the coming of the white man.

Celebrity ROUND 16

STG PAR

NZW CRO

June 28 7.50pm

June 29 6.00pm

SYD MEL

PAN MAN

NEW BUL

BRI CAN

WES GCT

sou nqc

June 29 7.55pm

June 30 3.00pm

June 30 5.30pm

June 30 7.35pm

July 1 2.00pm

July 1 4.10pm

SCORE

Jeff Watson - Club President, St Marys Band Club - 9623 1211

158 Sharon Spindler - Aussie - 0449 954 497

142 Romano Garofali - Nepean Pools - 4722 9201

124 Victor Glanville - Vic’s Maxi Transport - 4732 2195

146 Brett McVea - National Locksmiths - 1300 897 170

130 Toby Hughes - Sinclair Hyundai - 4720 1111

134 Daniel Galea - Adenbrook Homes - 9622 4091

138 Vic Shipley - Powersmart Electrical - 0415 982 093

140 John Thain - Penrith City Mayor - 0411 427 812

128 Iris Russell -Benard VenueBratusa Manager, Pioneer Tavern - 4736 4466 Councillor

136 Thor Thor’s- Cafe Aaron- Tyres @print- 4721 0292

148

TIPSTERS ROUND 16

STG PAR

NZW CRO

SYD MEL

PAN MAN

NEW BUL

BRI CAN

WES GCT

sou nqc

June 28 7.50pm

June 29 6.00pm

June 29 7.55pm

June 30 3.00pm

June 30 5.30pm

June 30 7.35pm

July 1 2.00pm

July 1 4.10pm

SCORE

Mark Geyer - Nepean News columnist

130 Prue Car - Member for Londonderry - 9833 1122

136 Councillor Aaron Duke - 0404 085 981

128 Peter Zaccazan - Zac Homes - 1300 350 793

112 Paul Wallace - Property Central - 0412 272 407

128 Jim Hill - Nepean Solar - 0425 281 626

128 Emma Husar - Member for Lindsay - 4722 0600 - www.emmahusar.com.au

138 Steve Beard - Select Mortgage - 0403 166 207

128 Aaron Tyers - @print - 4731 5055

124 Brock Shepperd - Wests Harold Matthews Coach

150 Sharon Mudiman - Bespoke Realty Group - 0413 757 998 Nicole Keene - Blink Property - 1300 629 610

124

Nepean News 21 June 2018 Issue 229

26

SPORT

Coach’s Corner

State of Origin Game Two preview

The time is now for the New South Wales Blues with the Queensland Maroons reeling from a stack of injuries and retirements both before and since the 2018 series kicked off with a comprehensive victory to the Blues in Game One at the MCG. This will not feel like a traditional build up for players and fans with the introduction of a stand alone Origin game this Sunday night June 24 at ANZ Stadium. The challenge for both coaches will be to maximise the time effectively while also taking into consideration the short preparation for the players especially those who played on Sunday afternoon prior to getting into camp for Game Two. The Blues looked hungrier, faster, stronger but not necessarily more confident in Game One. Queensland hit the lead with 35 minutes to go in Game One which was an early litmus test for this young team, but they rose to the challenge and steadied to come away with an all important victory.

But the pressure and expectation now only rises with home field advantage and the shortest price in

over a decade heading into Game Two. Brad Fittler and his coaching staff have revived the Blues set up with young fresh faces and in form players and he is to be congratulated for the way he has approached his first series with a determination to do it his way.

And never looking sideways despite constant media speculation about who and who wouldn’t be in the team in the lead up to the series.

How do NSW wrap the series up at ANZ Stadium on Sunday night? Firstly they need to address some simple aspects of their game such as their long kicking game, trying to ensure they are in the middle of the field and gain a quick play the ball the play before a kick would take pressure off the halves in trying to find grass and time to weigh up the right option. Our forwards need to improve their aggression on both sides of the ball by carrying stronger particularly out of their own end and by getting off their line and hitting Queensland’s forwards early and often to ensure we win the battle for field position.

Brock Shepperd Wests Harold Matthews Coach Fifth and Last NRL Podcast b.shepperd@hotmail.com

It’s also vitally important that the Blues make less errors than Queensland and also concede less penalties, both stats which fell our way in Game One. Our outside backs will need to reproduce their efforts in defusing kicks and carrying the ball out of yardage effectively also. Queensland have a stack of experience and a natural confidence with all their past success and the Blues were in this identical position last season heading to ANZ Stadium for Game Two and they coughed up that game in one of the most amazing second half collapses seen in Origin history. Queensland also carried for more metres per set in Game One with 46 per set to NSW 43 per set. NSW had a completion rate of 90% and the majority of 50/50 calls went their way. With all this taken into account I think the Blues have more improvement in them than the Maroons heading into this second game. Hopefully this young squad can right the wrongs of 12 months ago and deliver us NSW fans a rare series victory to celebrate on home soil. Prediction: NSW to win by 14 points.

Proudly sponsored by Penrith Party Hire (02) 4731 1313

Masters Pennants Golf

PVSF Junior Sport Star Award

By CONNER LOWE

L-R: Derek Duguid, Andrew Supple, Steve Small, Bob Lees (Captain), Bob Flood (Club Captain and Manager), Steve Francis, Steve Hackett, Peter Low, Jose Vidigal.

Craig Douglas missing from photo.

Glenmore Heritage Valley Golf Club’s Masters Pennants team has moved into the playoffs in the 2018 Masters Pennants Series - photo courtesy of Andrew Robb.

Players L-R Brad Weir, Paul Groves, Damon Cox, Steve Hunt, Duane Orth, Mark Winter, Andrew Robb, John Mills, Ray Eldridge. Not pictured - Keith Clark and Craig Fox.

By Noel Rowsell

T

wo local Golf Clubs have won their respective Divisions of the 2018 Masters Pennant series and both now move into the playoffs.

Glenmore Heritage Valley (Division One) and Panthers Wallacia (Division Sixteen) have finished at the top of their respective divisions, in spite of differing results in the final round.

Glenmore had a strong 9-6 win over Bankstown to finish ahead of Springwood Country Club in Division One, leap-frogging the lower Blue Mountains team with that crucial win.

Wallacia lost 9-6 to Beverley Park but still finished ahead of the same club on percentages in Division Sixteen, thanks to superior win-loss ratio.

There was no joy for the remaining clubs in the Nepean Valley, with Leonay falling 10-5 to Bardwell Valley in Division Four, Dunheved winning 10-5 over Camden but still finishing in second spot behind Windsor in Division Three and Penrith falling 9-6 to Roseville to finish second in Division Two. The playoffs begin on 8th July to determine the final sixteen teams, then continue week by week until the top two teams meet in the Final on 5th August.

All playoff venues to be announced shortly.

T

he Penrith Valley Sports Foundation has awarded William Mather from Glenmore Park the Junior Sport Star Award for the month of May for his amazing development and skill in Water Polo.

William has been playing Water Polo for five years and currently plays for the Drummoyne Water Polo Club U/16’s division one side.

Last year William was selected to represent NSW in the U/14’s squad in the East Coast Challenge where he managed to win the challenge and William was awarded goalkeeper of the tournament.

William spoke about the award highlighting the sport and his appreciation for his parents in winning the award.

“I’m delighted as it highlights a sport that is not mainstream and this brings recognition to the sport of Water Polo,” he said.

“I am happy to win this award as it recognises the hard work that myself and my parents put into my success.”

William has been selected to represent CHS U/15’s in the Pan-Pac Games to be held in New Zealand and has also been selected for the NSW U/16’s development team. William is also a member of the NSW HPP (High Performance Program) and

NSW Water Polo Elite Goalkeeper program.

William also spoke about how often he is involved with the sport weekly and his goals for the future in the sport.

“My greatest achievement was being ranked as the best goalkeeper in the country at last year’s U/14’s East Coast Challenge whilst playing for NSW,” he said.

“What I love about playing Water Polo is that the game is very physical, fast and most importantly a team sport. I currently train three to four days a week and then play U/16’s and U/18’s on Sunday.

“My ultimate goal for the future is to be selected and play Water Polo for Australia in the Olympics.”

We would like to congratulate William on his award from Penrith Valley Sports Foundation and to continue striding for success in Water Polo for the future.

PENRITH PANTHERS

SPORT

By STEWART MOSES

@TheRiffMarn

W

ithout any fanfare or public announcements, Peter Wallace had already decided some time ago that 2018 would be his last season as a player.

The mind was willing him on for one last tilt at maiden-premiership success.

But the body was clearly giving him a different message that it could not go on anymore.

That clear message gave Wallace no other choice but to make the gutwrenching but selfless decision to retire just days out from Penrith’s game v Canberra.

By the long weekend following that game, team mates were informed not in person, but via a group messaging phone app such was the emotional difficulty Wallace faced in notifying them that his stellar 240 NRL game career spread between Penrith (200507 & 2014-18: 101 games) and Brisbane (2008-2013: 139 games) was over much earlier and more abruptly than he had planned for.

By early Wednesday morning last week, Phil Gould confirmed the news that the club stalwart had retired with immediate effect and paid tribute to his selflessness, courage and toughness.

“It’s an incredibly selfless act from Peter,” Gould said in a club press release.

Wallace captained the Panthers in 48 of his 101 NRL games for the club.

Credit: 77 Media.

“Peter has been battling with injury for several years and has repeatedly played for the club with injuries that would keep the normal man home in bed.

“It can now be revealed that Peter has played the last two years with no ACL in his knee after his last knee reconstruction actually failed.

“Management and coaches knew of his condition, but he didn’t want anyone else to know.

“I can also remember him staying on the field for 50 minutes in a game where he had completely torn his ACL. “He is a tremendously tough individual and his leadership has been wonderful for our club.”

Panthers RL CEO Brian Fletcher added that Wallace was an outstanding individual who will remain employed with the Panthers in a coaching capacity yet to be determined post this year’s interim role as an assistant NRL coach to Anthony Griffin.

“Peter’s just an outstanding individual more than anything,” Fletcher told Nepean News.

“He’s a great footballer who has represented at some of the highest levels for both NSW (four caps - 200809) and Scotland (2013 World Cup) but above all that he just simply an outstanding person.

“He has great qualities and he’s joining the coaching staff and will be a great addition as what we see as being a long-term employee of the Panthers.

“His role next year has yet to be determined but we’ll sit down with him at the end of the year and work out what he’ll be doing next year.”

Whilst Wallace played on the past two seasons without an ACL after the knee reconstruction at the end of the 2015 season actually failed him a few months later, it was actually a bicep injury that required probable seasonending surgery that finally caught up with him.

At a press conference held later last week, the 32-year old skipper revealed he decided to retire because he didn’t want the injury to jeopardise Penrith’s push for its’ third premiership or block the path for a younger player coming through the grades.

“I would have liked to have been there towards the end of the year but it wouldn’t be fair on them (teammates) or the club to hang on for the sake of it if I won’t be able to contribute and contribute in the right way,” Wallace conceded.

“This injury is not allowing me to train the way I need to.

“I’ve had ongoing things but I’ve always been in the position where I could do my rehab and it would be fine.

“My knee was ongoing but it never stopped me from being at the standard I needed to be at.

“I don’t want to hold them back or let anyone down.”

As for his team mates, they believe Wallace’s shock decision will serve as additional motivation to the playing group to taste premiership success, as Isaah Yeo explained last week.

“If we could, it would be wonderful to do it for him, it has been in the back of our mind from the start of the year,” Yeo declared.

“It was always going to be his last year I think.

“But now we can hopefully do it and send him off on a high note even if it won’t be playing with him.”

PVSF Senior Sport Star Award

By CONNER LOWE

T

he Penrith Valley Sports Foundation has awarded Shannon Willmott the Senior Sport Star Award for the month of May for her amazing development and skill in Oz-tag.

Shannon began competing in Little A’s athletics at the age of 5-years-old, representing at State and National level as a sprinter. When she went to high school she began to play Oz-tag with the Nepean District Oz-tag in the ladies’ competition. Shannon has been playing competitive Oz-tag for four years playing with the Penrith Oz-tag Association in multiple mixed teams.

Shannon spoke about how she felt receiving her award and the enjoyment of playing a competitive team sport.

“I am thrilled to have been nominated for the senior sports star of the month award. I have always loved being active in sports. It’s a great physical, mental and social outlet,” she said.

“I am excited and proud to receive this award, and to have the opportunity

to represent and showcase the sport of Oz-tag.

“I really enjoy Oz-tag as it is a challenging, exciting, and fast paced team sport played with many other awesome people who all have a passion for Oz-tag.”

Shannon’s greatest achievements so far in Oz-tag are representing the Nepean District Ladies Oz-tag Under 20’s Team for the NSW Oz-tag Senior State Cup in March of 2016 and 2017.

Representing West Sydney Tigers Ladies Under 20’s at The Australian Oz-tag Championships in November

2017 and also representing the Nepean District Ladies Oz-tag Opens Team at the NSW Oz-tag Senior State Cup in March of 2018.

Shannon also spoke about how often she plays Oz-tag weekly and what her future plans are for the sport.

“I play local competition for Nepean Ladies basically all year round and three games a week in the summer competition with the Penrith Oz-tag Association. Training for representative teams can be up to several times per week,” she said.

“I will continue to play for fun,

enjoyment and fitness in the local Oztag competition with my team mates in both the ladies and mixed teams. This is something I plan to do for a very, very long time.

“I also hope to be successful for the team selection again this year to compete at the 2018 Australian Oztag Championships to be held later in December of this year.”

We would like to congratulate Shannon on her award from Penrith Valley Sports Foundation and to continue striding for success in Oz-tag for the future.

Nepean News 21 June 2018 Issue 229

Penrith’s Braveheart forced to retire early

27 27

Nepean News 21 June 2018 Issue 229

28

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PENRITH PANTHERS

I didn’t even think I would be a captain: Maloney

By STEWART MOSES

H

@TheRiffMarn

e’s the lovable larrikin halfback that has been known to drive team mates and coaches up the wall.

But according to newly appointed Panthers skipper, James Maloney, the move west to the foot of the mountains has finally seen the playmaker wise up as to when is the right time to flick the “fun” switch on.

Whilst Maloney already had a leadership role at the club and had been interim captain for three games prior to Peter Wallace’s sudden retirement, the NSW halfback freely admits that the C that now resides next to his name is still taking some getting used to but adds that it wouldn’t concern him if he wasn’t required as captain in the long term.

“You’ve got to be able to have a good time but I’ve learned over time that there is a time and place for that and I like to think I am getting better at managing that,” Maloney told Nepean News.

“But nothing really changes for me.

I’m still the same.

“I didn’t even think I would be a captain. It’s not something I’ve ever sort of viewed myself as.

“To me it’s not something that I’m that hung up on to be honest, but if they want me to do it, I’m more than happy to do so.

“I have enjoyed the leadership out at Penrith with the young boys.

“I’m out there as a senior player and already had a leadership role given I’m older and more experienced. That’s what I’m here for.

James Maloney says he is still coming to terms with being appointed captain in the wake of Peter Wallace’s sudden retirement. Credit: 77 Media.

“Whether they do (stick with me) or not is no real concern to me, I’ll just keep doing what I’ve been brought there to do.”

The recent retirement of Wallace is still somewhat raw for Maloney, who just turned 32, the same age as his former skipper and concedes that while he knew it was going to be Wallace’s last year as a player, the abrupt timing of the decision did catch him off guard.

“I’m still shattered for Wal. It’s devastating that his body gave up on him and couldn’t finish this season out,” Maloney lamented.

“I see him week-to-week and knew obviously he was getting on.

“But I didn’t know (prior to last Sunday) what he was going to do but

obviously it’s very tough to see it end the way that it did.

“Hopefully I can do as good a job as he did in leading the team.”

Despite being the same age as Wallace, Maloney says he is confident his body will hold up and allow him to complete his contract at Penrith at the end of the 2020 season, with the twotime premiership winner then hopeful of continuing his career overseas in the English Super League.

“I’ve hopefully got another few years left and that it doesn’t have to end too abruptly,” Maloney replied.

“My body’s alright at the moment and if we get through that, no worries and I’ll see what happens when that time comes.

“But while I don’t think I will be in the NRL (once my contract with Penrith finishes), if I am able to keep playing, it might be (through) a little stint overseas and do some travel, which would be a good opportunity for the family to do so.”

A sciatic nerve issue picked up in last Friday’s game against the Roosters isn’t likely to prevent Maloney from taking his place in the NSW side for Game Two this Sunday night at ANZ Stadium.

But as the only Panther to have played every minute on the field thus far in season 2018, Maloney is hopeful that the club will be able to afford him the opportunity to rest and refresh the body at some point ahead of the run into the finals series, adding that the club is in a good space overall despite the ongoing injury toll that threatens to impact results throughout the representative period.

“I’ll wait and see. I’ll have a chat with Hook and the staff after it all finishes and see where we are at,” Maloney confirmed.

“We’ll make a call on that sort of stuff when we get there.

“But I think we can still rest guys. You want guys playing their best footy at the back end of the year.

“We’ve got lot of depth there and no doubt we’ll manage this period.

“If that what it takes to get us through it then we’ve got plenty of depth to cover but that’s up to the staff.

“They’ll know what’s best for us and they’ll make sure that we get through this period and keep us humming along going into the backend of the year.”

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PENRITH PANTHERS

with Stew Moses

@TheRiffMarn

ORIGIN, NEVER-ENDING INJURIES TAKES ITS TOLL ON WEARY PANTHERS The last fortnight has been Penrith’s least impressive of the season to date.

Firstly a late come-from-behind rally against Canberra was required as Penrith overcame a tenpoint deficit to snatch a one-point win over the Raiders on a cool evening in the Nation’s capital, less than 48 hours after four Panthers helped NSW win 22-12 over Queensland, in the Origin opener in Melbourne.

The Origin disruptions, more injuries and the shock immediate retirement of skipper Peter Wallace all conspired to ensure the Panthers would turn in their most disappointing performance of the season to date as the Roosters easily claimed a 32-6 victory at Allianz Stadium last Friday night.

With both St George-Illawarra and South Sydney both producing back-to-back wins over the past fortnight, the Panthers have relinquished top spot and have moved back into third position.

But while there was good news coming into the Roosters game regarding the better-than expected outcome on the knee injury Viliame Kikau suffered during the Raiders game, there was certainly none after the game with confirmation that Reagan Campbell-Gillard’s Origin campaign was over after suffering a broken jaw that, with surgery will sideline him for the next 6-7 weeks.

The Roosters certainly made a statement of their own to lead 18-0 inside the opening twenty minutes of the game before the Panthers finally got on the scoreboard for the only time in the game, through a converted try to Dean Whare.

But the Roosters having led 20-6 at the main break, continue to dominate proceedings in the second half, restricting the visitors to just 22% possession (and 32% for the entire match) and scored a further two tries to run out comfortable winners.

Coach Anthony Griffin says the loss was akin to how his side had dismantled St George-Illawarra a few weeks earlier.

“Obviously it was a good performance by them (the Roosters). They were too good,” Griffin said post-match.

“At times we fought our way back into it and looked like we would fight our way back into the game.

“But the game was always going away from us and they had too much ball and we weren’t where we needed to be.

“The second half we spent the whole half defending.

“There was no give up in us but the game was gone by then.

“It was a lesson for us.”

JUNIOR REPS RESULTS / FIXTURES: Meanwhile in Jersey Flegg, Penrith (10-2) have now won six straight and join Newcastle in equal top spot (second on for & against) after a hardfought 10-8 win over the Bulldogs, last Saturday at Belmore Sports Ground after having trailed 2-0 at half-time.

Next up, a two week break before returning home to take on the Dragons on Friday July 6, as a prequel to the Warriors NRL clash.

Campbell-Gillard’s Origin ambitions have been put on hold following his injury set back. Credit: NRL Photos.

Panthers skipper, James Maloney added that the disruptive week leading into a game which the Roosters were always going to be up for, didn’t help their cause.

“I think this period is disjointed. You’ve got people away at different stages. Training is a little bit disrupted. I think that can have an effect,” the battered skipper told the media post-game.

“But it’s not an excuse. We still need to be better and we should have been better (tonight).

“We need to make sure that as we go through this period, when guys are sort of in and out, that we need to make the improvements.

“We sort of missed the mark last week and were lucky to get away with it but it really hit home tonight.”

It was better news for Penrith’s ISP team, who maintain second spot, one point behind competition leaders Mounties, after the injuryhit Panthers recorded a come-from behind 18-16 win at Belmore Sportsground last Saturday.

Already missing Tom Eisenhuth (hamstring), Reed Izzard (jaw) and back-up hooker, Soni Luke (shoulder) to injury, the Panthers, trailing 10-6 at the break, were dealt a blow early in the second half when half Jarome Luai limped from the field (suspected MCL injury).

But with Tyrone May leading the way with a hand in both of Penrith’s tries, the Panthers held on to record a gutsy victory.

This weekend, Penrith have the bye due to the rep round, before returning home the following Saturday, June 30 to take on Blacktown at 12:45pm, as part of NRL game day.

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There are no NRL games this weekend due to rep round but with 12 players selected across six different teams, coach Anthony Griffin will have all fingers and toes crossed hoping his side gets through the demanding schedule injuryfree.

Penrith are among the most heavily represented clubs this weekend with eight of Penrith’s starting NRL 13 named plus a further four ISP players named. Those selected include: NSW: Nathan Cleary, James Maloney, Tyrone Peachey; NZ: James Fisher-Harris (2nd test cap) and Dallin Watene-Zelezniak (7th test cap); TONGA: Sione Katoa (8th appearance); SAMOA: debuts for Tyrone May and Christian Crichton; FIJI: Tyrone Phillips (4th appearance) and NSW RESIDENTS: Caleb Aekins, Liam Martin and Maika Sivo.

ISP coach Guy Missio (asst coach) and Chad McGill (S&C Coach) will provide support to the NSW Residents side.

After 19 test caps and four tries for NZ, Dean Whare was overlooked as new coach Michael Maguire looks to use the one-off test against England in Denver as an experiment, as was Corey Harawira-Naera who would have played if picked despite an ongoing groin issue.

Other unlucky Panthers to miss out on rep honours include Trent Merrin, while Reagan Campbell-Gillard, Jarome Luai, Viliame Kikau, Waqa Blake and Tom Eisenhuth were all cruelled by injury.

But in some good news, the Panthers are set to welcome back Kikau, Blake and Moses Leota for the following Saturday’s home clash with Manly, while Josh Mansour’s return edges closer.

Make your support count and show your #PantherPride at the game.

29 29 Nepean News 21 June 2018 Issue 229

Repeat Sets

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Nepean News 21 June 2018 Issue 229

30

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PENRITH PANTHERS

GOLDEN POINTS with Stew Moses

@TheRiffMarn

PANTHERS’ BLUES HALVES READY TO FIRE WHILE ANOTHER PANTHER COULD RETIRE? Penrith’s NSW halves pairing of James Maloney and Nathan Cleary, along with Tyrone Peachey came into NSW Origin camp last Sunday night at Coogee, as the Blues look to wrap up their first series win under new coach Brad Fittler, this Sunday night at ANZ Stadium this Sunday night.

Speaking one-on-one with Nepean News, Maloney says that a sciatic nerve issue that flared up last Friday night, had settled well and will play, despite coach Brad Fittler naming Roosters five-eighth Luke Keary as back-up.

“I’m alright just a sciatic nerve was getting pinched so it was a bit uncomfortable,” Maloney confirmed.

“It’s just something that come out nowhere the other night, but it’s settled down quite quickly and with a few anti-inflammatories and some (physio) treatment, I’ll be sweet to play.”

Maloney has reminded his team mates that NSW were in the same boat last year, when they lost an opportunity to win the series at home and that the team will need to play even better in game two, given QLD’s desperation to take the series to a decider in Brisbane.

“It’s nice to be in this position and obviously is better than being one-down,” Maloney said.

“But we’re coming up against a QLD side that will have their backs to the wall and have everything at stake.

“They will be better by a long way than what they were in game one.

“Hopefully we all have an understanding of what Origin is all about now and know that we will need to play better footy on Sunday.

“We’ve got to continue to ask questions and move them around.”

Meanwhile Nathan Cleary, also told Nepean News that despite being happy with his solid debut in game one, the nerves going into game two are there more than ever before as he hopes to make an even greater impact in just his second game in the Sky-Blue.

“Nerves are definitely still there. Every time I think about Sunday night I get a gut-wrenching kind of feeling but I’m definitely looking forward to the challenge ahead,” Cleary admitted.

“But it’s awesome to now play in Sydney. I’m really looking forward to it.

“I’ve been in the crowd before watching on so it will be pretty amazing to get out there, can’t wait.

“The first game was pretty fast and it took a

exempt from the salary cap as likely to be the case with Tim Browne.

Meanwhile media reports suggest Manly prop Lloyd Perrett could join Penrith pre-June 30.

James Maloney hopes to help lead NSW to Origin glory this Sunday night. Credit: NRL Photos.

little while to get used to. You’ve (definitely) got to be on the ball.

“Obviously there’s not many penalties and not many errors either and you need to stay in the game a lot more and work harder and take your chances when they come.

“I need to take the opportunity with both hands when it arises.”

Reagan Campbell-Gillard has been ruled out of the Origin series after it was confirmed that the prop will be sidelined for 6-7 weeks with a broken jaw following a collision with Roosters forward, Jared Waerea-Hargreaves.

“It’s unfortunate for him and for us,” Panthers coach Anthony Griffin lamented.

“It’s terrible for Reagan particularly the way his season has been going and he’s a big part of our team.

“But we’ll all learn a lesson from this and we’ll get a few troops back.

“A few guys will have to lift and fill in for Reg (but).”

While Griffin confirmed that Corey HarawiraNaera suffered a badly cut lip from a high shot last Friday night, of more concern is an ongoing groin injury that the back-rower has been battling, which has seen his training workload restricted as a means of managing the issue.

A few editions back, it was suggested that the resigning of Josh Mansour could throw doubt on the playing future of Sam McKendry at Penrith in the wake of his third knee reconstruction.

The drums are now beating louder than ever before that the Kiwi international prop may have sadly played his last NRL game and could be medically retired for season 2019 and thus become

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The NRL has announced that a Magic Round, consisting of two Friday, three Saturday and three Sunday games are to be played at Brisbane’ Suncorp Stadium in May 2019.

Panthers RL CEO Brian Fletcher said that the club has yet to be properly briefed on the inner workings of the concept.

“All I know is that it is not our idea to go to Brisbane as part of this Magic Round concept,” Fletcher told Nepean News.

“The way I understand it is that it will be an away game, not a home game for us.

“But as for the rest of the details, we have not really been briefed enough on it as yet.”

Fletcher has also declared that after nearly making the top four in 2017, the club is primed to secure a spot this year despite the demands of the representative season.

“We did expect to go well. It’s no surprise that we’re in the top four,” Fletcher declared.

“I think we showed last year that we just finished outside the top four and we were ready to go to that next step. “(The representative period) shouldn’t be a problem for us. It helps that we’ve got players coming back so we won’t have any excuses as we look to get past Origin and knuckle down for the run into the finals.”

Fletcher acknowledged the part played by Panthers fans, with crowd attendances amongst the best in Sydney, as the club looks forward to yet another bumper home crowd next Saturday.

“The Panther supporters have been outstanding and that’s the best marketing tool you can get is winning home games,” Fletcher replied.

“It will be a good crowd for sure with pre-sales going very good.”

Our condolences go out to the family and friends of Harry Jackson, a long-time Panther fan who sadly passed away on the supporters bus as it made it’s way back from last Friday night’s game, despite the best efforts of fellow supporters to revive him. #PantherPride

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PENRITH PANTHERS

with MARK GEYER

Thoughts on Origin and what’s to come

B

ecause of the fortnightly distribution of this fair magazine I haven’t had a chance to dissect the first origin game from the MCG in Melbourne with you, the reader.

I’ll also have a look at this Sunday’s blockbusting confrontation at ANZ stadium for game 2 of this years origin series.

Origin 1 was the changing of the guard.

It was a complete overhaul of player personnel from both the playing and coaching point of view for the NSW team. Freddy replaced Laurie, Brandy replaced Sterlo, and Danny Buderus replaced Matt Parish as the clipboards exchanged hands. But it was the total overhaul amongst the playing ranks that had most excited.

11 debutants were picked! The team was picked ON FORM! And sentiment was thrown out the window.

Granted, QLD were a completely different looking team to the one that triumphed last season but at last NSW picked a team that could be a 5 or 6 year nucleus of something very very special.

Of all those debuting I thought Latrell Mitchell was brilliant, Nathan Cleary composed and strong, Tom Trbojevic fantastic, RCG tough, and Damien Cook electric.

To beat QLD 22-12 every one of the 17 man squad had to perform at their optimum, with Roosters James Tedesco being NSW’s very best. Now to game two this Sunday. I CANNOT wait!

Last weekend saw injury rule out Reagan Campbell Gillard with a broken jaw, poor bugger, and Michael Morgan with a torn bicep. Dylan Napa and Latrell Mitchell also had their own scares but should be ok for Sunday.

At the time of writing it wasn’t yet known who will replace RCG in the front row, with both Ryan James from the Titans, and Matt Prior from the Sharks being brought into the squad.

Ryan James is the tip and I have no qualms, it’s that I just don’t think a player like Tariq Sims can do any more to don the famous Blue jersey, but it looks like he’ll miss out again.

QLD on the other hand have decided to fight fire with fire and have brought in Newcastle sensation Kalyn Ponga to make his debut in the game’s biggest arena, something this whiz kid will handle with ease you sense.

NSW are starting overwhelming favourites for Sunday night’s game, and rightly so, but you get the feeling we are about to witness one of the more epic encounters ever seen in origin this Sunday night as NSW look to wrap up the series. BRING IT ON!!

See you at the game.

MG (random Westie) OAM

 QLD whiz kid KalynPonga will make his origin debut this Sunday night

31 31 Nepean News 21 June 2018 Issue 229

MG on the mark

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