Nepean News 21 May 2021 DIGITAL

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Playground Partnership Member for Londonderry Ms Prue Car MP, Pacific National CEO Paul Scurrah, ACFS Port Logistics Chairman Terry Tzaneros present St Mary Magdalene Senior Minister Trent Sutcliffe with a cheque for $60,000 to build the new playground on the Church grounds

Nepean News 21 May 2021 Issue 303OWDIG

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Loving life at The Royce Retirement Living at The Royce Do as little or much as you like, it’s your choice.

The Royce is a vibrant, retirement community with an abundance of amenities including; Café Royce, an artisan cafe serving delicious, healthy meals and snacks, all made from tasty fresh ingredients and HWA Studio at The Royce, your very own commercial hair and beauty salon.

Beautifully landscaped gardens are a standout feature of our retirement living community, with a wonderful array of flowering plants to awaken your senses.

Retire your way at The Royce. Do as little or as much as you want within a welcoming community. Wind down in the gymnasium, take a cooking class or simply enjoy a BBQ in one of the three communal courtyards or relax with family and friends from the comfort of your spacious balcony or terrace.

Living at The Royce means coming home every day to a warm, welcoming and fun-loving community with great facilities and a broad range of activities. To make life as easy as possible you’ll have access to a concierge, a dry-cleaning service and a handyman to help with odd jobs in your apartment.

At The Royce they understand the deep and valuable connection people have with their pets. Animals are wonderful companions, not to mention very therapeutic which is why they welcome them as members of The Royce community.

Living at The Royce gives you the freedom to make the most of your retirement. To live life exactly the way you want to.

Your Community

A picturesque setting with stunning mountain views.

If you are conscious of your health, the Great River Walk is just down the road or, if you prefer, you can take advantage of the on-site exercise classes and walking club. Need for a little retail therapy? Westfield Penrith and Nepean Village are both a stone’s throw away.

Being social is an important part of a happy retirement. Situated just next door, Panthers Penrith – Your World of Entertainment has everything you need for a great time.

There are a variety of entertainment options for you and your family including trivia, exciting live shows

at the Evan Theatre and even a spot of line dancing. Life at The Royce is made easy with everything at your fingertips.

It’s your choice, start planning now for the retirement you deserve at The Royce – a warm, welcoming and friendly community that you’ll enjoy calling home.

Café Royce

The heart of our lifestyle community Perfect for catching up with friends or relaxing with your favourite cup, Café Royce is a community favourite.

Enjoy a coffee from bespoke Sydney roaster, Little Marionette and delicious pastries made on-site in a beautiful, light-filled environment.

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ember for Mulgoa, Tanya Davies said the Safer Roads Program, which is made up of the Saving Lives on Country Roads and Liveable and Safe Urban Communities initiatives, is about saving lives on our roads.

“Projects like these will make a huge difference to locals and help drivers on our roads make it home safely at the end of the day,” Mrs Davies said.

“The NSW Government is committed to reducing the road toll and it is estimated the $822 million program will prevent the loss of more than 1500 lives and serious injuries on our roads over 15 years.

“This round of the program will see $135 million invested in 78 new projects across the state as well as continuing projects from previous rounds during the 21/22 Financial Year.

“These road improvements are designed to save lives and will include the installation of pedestrian fencing and threshold treatments on Endeavour Avenue in St Clair, as well as a single lane roundabout at the intersection of Feather Street and McIntyre Avenue in St Clair.”

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Paul Toole said round 4 of the program would deliver 78 projects designed to save lives on roads.

“Safety barriers, rumble strips, traffic signals and wide centrelines are among the measures being rolled out under the $135 million investment,” Mr Toole said.

Statewide round four of the Safer Roads Program will deliver: · 28 kilometres of safety barrier, reducing

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the severity of head-on and run-off-road crashes by up to 95 per cent.

• 167 kilometres of rumble strips to alert motorists they are departing from their lane.

• More than 30 kilometres of wide centre line providing a greater distance for drivers to recover from lane departures, reducing the likelihood of head-on crashes by up to 50 per cent.

• 47 urban intersection improvement projects including roundabouts and traffic signal upgrades.

Prue Car MP Member for Londonderry

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Nepean News 21 May 2021 Issue 303OWDIG

Road safety in focus for electorate

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Nepean News 21 May 2021 Issue 303OWDIG

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National Road Safety Week

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oad safety is a shared responsibility and this year during National Road Safety Week (16-23 May 2021), Transport for NSW is asking everyone to get involved, spread the word and consider what action they can take.

National Road Safety Week highlights the impact of road trauma, honours those we have lost to road crashes and pledges to make the roads safer for everyone.

Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown OAM said this campaign reminds us just how important it is to be safe on our roads, protect those around us and return ourselves safely to our loved ones.

“It’s scary to think that in addition

to lives lost, crashes on NSW roads leave more than 10,000 people with serious injuries every year*” Cr McKeown said.

“There are many different ways you can get involved, starting with taking the pledge to lead the way and drive so others survive. By taking the pledge you are making a commitment to take responsibility on the road to protect every life, every time you drive.”

So get involved and show your support for safer roads.

To find out more or to get involved visit www.roadsafetyweek.com.au or email towardszero@transport.nsw. gov.au *Transport for NSW Reports: all figures are preliminary as at April 2021

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arents of more than 200,000 newborns across NSW have benefited from a Baby Bundle of essential items given to them on the birth of their child over the last two years.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the Baby Bubble is valued at more than $300 and is filled with baby products and information to support the health, development and well-being of babies in NSW. “Every baby born in NSW is eligible to receive a Baby Bundle, with more than 200,000 handed out since the initiative began in January 2019,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“The Baby Bundle not only helps reduce some of the initial costs of having a baby, it also provides useful items to support new parents give their child the best start in life.”

The program supports new additions to a family and makes sure parents are receiving important information and supplies during what can be a happy but confusing time.

The Baby Bundle includes a number of items including a sleeping bag, play and change mats, muslin wrap, bath thermometer and a first aid kit, along with a selection of NSW Health printed resources that complement the Blue Book.

Parents receive the Baby Bundle before being

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The Baby Bundle is part of the NSW Government’s $157 million parenting package, including more midwives and family health nurses, investment in testing and treatments for children’s diseases, and practical and emotional support to parents.

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’

Nepean News 21 May 2021 Issue 303OWDIG

Bundles of joy

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enrith City Council’s new 1.2km walking grid in Kingswood is coming to life thanks to support from the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment’s “Places to Love” program.

The Live, Work, Play Grid in Kingswood starts in Wainwright Park and encourages local residents, students and workers to walk the 1.2km loop and discover new temporary elements and activations along the way.

The project is about testing low-cost, high impact interventions such as pilots, pop-ups, short-term treatments and semi-permanent changes to see how they support walkability and activation in the heart of Kingswood.

These interventions seek to improve walkable access to, and the amenity of, public space. Project outcomes can be used to guide future initiatives or permanent changes.

The improvements have been co-designed by local women who joined Penrith City Council in September 2020 on a Night Walk to share their experiences and ideas.

Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown OAM praised the involvement of local women in the co-design of public space improvements and said it helped make places feel better for everyone.

“The Live, Work, Play Grid project is exciting as Council has asked local women to share their experiences and invited their ideas for what would improve the streets and public spaces in Kingswood,” Cr McKeown said.

“Council recognises the importance of including local voices in public space improvements, and we

are thrilled with the results of the Live, Work, Play Grid.

“The project is about testing some temporary interventions that make Kingswood feel more inviting for everyone,” she continued.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said the NSW Government’s Places to Love program was helping councils such as Penrith City Council to find opportunities to innovate and reimagine public spaces.

“We’re working with councils across Sydney and in regional NSW to create and test innovative projects that bring local public spaces to life,” Mr Stokes said.

“The council’s Live, Work, Play Grid in Kingswood has created a more vibrant neighbourhood with a connected pedestrian walking loop that includes garden beds, artistic lighting and seating to help bring the community together.”

Places to Love is a collaboration between the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment and pilot councils across NSW. Once complete, each project will develop a detailed case study that will be shared in the Great Public Spaces Toolkit.

Council’s project aligns with the THINK BOLD Kingswood Place Plan developed in consultation with local residents and stakeholders and seeks to increase vibrancy and vitality in Kingswood’s core.

A number of exciting activations and activities are planned for Kingswood along the grid. These include planting workshops, twilight picnics, a pop-up lunchroom and an outdoor movie night.

For more information about the project and planned activations, please visit www.yoursaypenrith.com. au/project/liveworkplaykingswood

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Nepean News 21 May 2021 Issue 303OWDIG

New Live, Work, Play Grid comes to life in Kingswood

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Nepean News 21 May 2021 Issue 303OWDIG

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Celebrating the state’s valuable volunteers

By KeRRIE DAVIES

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he state’s best and brightest volunteers will be recognised for their dedication and countless hours of community service as part of the 2021 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards, with nominations now open.

Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services Mark Speakman said the opening of nominations for the awards coincides with the start of National Volunteer Week – this year’s theme is Recognise. Reconnect. Reimagine.

“The past 12 months have highlighted the pivotal role volunteers play in shaping and supporting our local communities. Volunteer week is an opportunity to shine a light on those people who put service above self,” Mr Speakman said.

“Whether they are from your local sporting club, volunteer rescue association or community group, if you know a local hero who is helping make your community a better place every day, nominate them for this year’s Volunteer of the Year Awards.”

The awards, now in their 15th year and run by the Centre for Volunteering, recognised more than 118,000 Volunteers last year from across the state.

Volunteers can be nominated for one of eight categories, including: • Adult Volunteer of the Year; • Young Volunteer of the Year;

• Senior Volunteer of the Year; • Volunteer Team of the Year; • Corporate Volunteer of the Year (Individual); • Corporate Volunteer of the Year (Team); • Club Volunteer of the Year; and • Excellence in Volunteer Management.

The Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate said the awards were a way to thank, recognise and celebrate the efforts of the state’s 2.4 million volunteers.

“The awards are a vital way for every one of us to say thank you for the invaluable contribution of our volunteers,” Ms Rygate said.

Nominations close on Friday, 9 July 2021. For more information, visit www.volunteering.com.au/volunteer-awards/

You’ll find volunteers everywhere across the Nepean region, with one example being at Nepean Hospital They answer our questions, show us the way and make us feel supported. They greet us with a smile, have a laugh with us and sympathise during difficult times.

Werrington locals and husband and wife team Paul and Patricia Bullen joined Nepean Hospital volunteer team last year.

Never having volunteered before, Patricia woke up one morning and decided she wanted a change. During her interview “she volunteered me too,” says retiree Paul with a chuckle.

Paul is finding the work interesting and rewarding. He says “it feels good to allay peoples’ fears, relax them and provide some comfort in a complex place.”

Having just celebrated their 43rd wedding anniversary, they were touched when their fellow volunteers decorated their base office to mark the occasion.

“We work with a lovely group of people,” said Patricia.

A surprising benefit is the extra exercise.

“Walking all over the hospital, we can clock up over 10,000 steps some days.” With a cheeky smile, Patricia adds “we make it a bit of a fun competition to see who can do the most steps for the day!”

To all our volunteers, you play a vital role in supporting our community and we thank you for your kind spirits and sharing your time all year round.

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69-year-old Penrith local has credited TAFE NSW with helping her to explore her life-long passion for visual arts, after retiring from a decades-long, high-flying career, which included a stint at The Pentagon.

A few years ago, Annie Wilcox retired from her corporate job and relocated to Sydney to be closer to family and pursue her creative interests, including photography, ceramics, and printmaking.

Ms Wilcox is currently studying an Advanced Diploma in Visual Arts at TAFE NSW Kingswood, and was recently awarded first place in the Student Category of the Australian Institute of Professional Photography’s (AIPP) Silver Lining Awards.

“I’ve always been interested in studying visual arts, but I never had the spare time while working in a demanding role. When I retired, I jumped at the opportunity to learn new skills and pursue my passions at TAFE NSW,” Ms Wilcox said.

“While it was goal of mine to enter the AIPP awards, I never in my wildest dreams expected to win.

The message I wanted to convey in my work was drudgery. The solid iron, harsh Australian landscape and mountains of laundry exert power over the woman, highlighting gender biases.

“The entire process has helped me overcome my fear of exposing myself through my art and opening myself up to peer critiques, and I’ve really enjoyed pushing myself and learning new things within a group of like-

minded individuals at TAFE NSW.” TAFE NSW Head Teacher of Visual Arts, Cath Barcan, said Ms Wilcox was a prime example of the opportunities TAFE NSW provides those looking to develop their creative skills.

“The Advanced Diploma of Visual Arts provides students, like Annie, with the wide-ranging, highlyspecialised skills they need to plan, develop, and exhibit a body of work

which expresses their creative flair,” Ms Barcan said.

“Through theory and practical course work, TAFE NSW students learn how to research and apply artistic concepts, engage in critical discourse, and use industry specific tools and materials to realise their vision.”

To find out more about the creative courses on offer at TAFE NSW, visit www.tafensw.edu.au.

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Nepean News 21 May 2021 Issue 303OWDIG

No rest for this retiree: How Annie became an award-winning photography student at 69

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Official opening new St Clair Men’s Shed

By Noel Rowsell

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he St Clair Men’s Shed, ‘Cecil’s Place’, officially opened it’s new building on 19th May, with Mrs Tanya Davies BAppSc(Phty) MP, Member for Mulgoa, and Penrith City Council Deputy Mayor Tricia Hitchen in attendance.

The Men’s Shed initially commenced operations on 13 February 2013 at the Autumnleaf Neighbourhood Centre in Autumnleaf Parade St Clair, with 8 inaugural members. Established as a social group for retired men in the local area, the group held informal meetings and hosted a number guest speakers, mainly about men’s health and other men’s issues.

In December 2013 it was decided that a functioning men’s shed would help to increase membership, so a concrete slab was laid and a garden shed erected at the Autumnleaf Parade Neighbourhood Centre. This allowed acceptance of tool donations, which gave members an opportunity to work on some projects to benefit the local community. Unfortunately, the garden shed had limitations of storage space, accessibility and opportunities for bigger and more meaningful projects.

In August 2016, members held discussions with Catholic Care, part of the Catholic Diocese in Parramatta, about the possible use of some land on the Mamre House site to build a shed. In October 2016, Catholic Care advised that the group could move into a temporary building on their site, until they received approval to establish a permanent larger shed.

After fundraising efforts and donations from the Nepean Men’s Shed, Strathfield South High School and the local community, the group was able to equip their temporary shed with a range of hand and electrical tools.

In July 2017, local State MP, the Hon. Tanya Davies, accepted an offer to become the Shed’s patron.

The official opening of the St Clair Men’s Shed. Photos by Noel Rowsell

In February 2018 the group were notified they had received a grant from the NSW Government Community Building Partnership Grants program to help start to build a new shed on the Mamre House site.

In December 2018 the group received another grant from the NSW Government Community Building Partnership Grants program to help build the new shed and a Development Application was submitted toPenrith City Council (PCC) to build the new shed on the Mamre House site.

Over the years, ‘Cecil’s Place’ and the St Clair and District Men’s Shed has assisted the local community by:

• Building a stage for the Harold Wheen Pre-school.

• Made building block for Penrith NADO. • Renovation of two bench seats for Ripples Swimming Centre.

• Building ‘Buddy Benches’ for Emmaus Catholic College at Kemps Creek.

• Made toys for Domestic Violence Service Management.

• Made a Nativity Scene for Catholic Care Mamre House site.

• Built a “bus” for It’s a Small World Childcare Centre at Seven Hills.

• Built Myna bird traps for the Blacktown City Council.

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Nepean News 21 May 2021 Issue 303OWDIG

Museum of Fire showcase our heritage

By Noel Rowsell

T

he Penrith Museum of Fire (MOF) has announced it’s latest temporary exhibition “Our Heritage” which follows the Museum’s early development through to the organisation that it is today.

As part of this new exhibition, the Museum looked to the voices of the future to understand it’s past.

The Museum asked all high school aged students to explain why history and places like the MOF will be important in the future.

This wasn’t an easy task, with students restricted to just 300 words, however they were invited to use any format they desired.

The MOF received short essays, poems and even a rap-style entry which made choosing just five entries for the shortlist very difficult.

The shortlisted entries came from a number of schools across Sydney and notably, two came from Penrith High School.

The judging panel were asked to select one winner and one highly commended work from the shortlist, with local Penrith HS student Dhanush Peruri winning with his

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Outright winner Dhanush Peruri and three winners Heer Panchal, Dhanush Peruri and Diadem Ajani - photos supplied

work “History Heritage”.

Thanks to support from the History Council NSW, Dhanush received book vouchers and a private tour of the State Library NSW. The Highly Commended winner was Heer Panchal, also of Penrith High School, with her work “Shadow”.

At the opening of the gallery another shortlisted entrant, Diadem

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Ajani from St. Patrick’s College Campbelltown received a special Curator’s Award.

Diadem’s piece “Don’t worry, there’s still time”, as well as Dhanush’s and Heer’s will be added to the Museum’s permanent digital collection, to ensure the history of the Museum is preserved into the future.

To see these three and the other

shortlisted entries you can visit the Museum’s new exhibit which will be open until later this year.

If you have ever wanted to know more about how the Museum of Fire came into existence or how it came to be in Penrith, then this is the perfect exhibition for you to visit.

The Museum of Fire is open 7 days, 9:30am – 4:30pm.

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Nepean News 21 May 2021 Issue 303OWDIG

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Penrith City Council celebrates its 150th Anniversary

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enrith City Council has reached an important milestone – this year is the 150th anniversary of Penrith becoming a municipality.

After many petitions from local residents, on 12 May 1871 the district of Penrith was proclaimed a municipality and announced in the NSW Government Gazette the following day. The population of Penrith township at the time was 836.

The last 150 years have seen us grow into a significant city: in 1949, Penrith amalgamated with St Marys, Castlereagh and parts of the Nepean Shire. In 1963, Emu Plains and Emu Heights joined Penrith City, and the boundaries of our contemporary city were drawn.

Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown OAM shared her immense pride to be part of a Council which has played such an important part in the development of our area and community.

“From its earliest beginnings, Penrith City Council has been innovative and dedicated to serving

local people, a lineage that continues today.”

“In the 1890s, Council enacted bylaws to keep people safe from diseases like typhoid and diphtheria.

In the 1920s, Council implemented a garbage removal system so that residents no longer had to burn or bury waste in their backyards,” Cr McKeown said.

“Penrith was the first town in the Sydney region to connect electricity for street lights and private homes in 1890, just as we were the first

in Sydney to implement the Food Organics and Garden Organics system in 2009. There is a strong tradition of innovation in Penrith City Council, and that is something to celebrate,” Cr McKeown concluded.

Between May and August of this year, our City will mark this occasion in several ways: historical artefacts from the last century and a half will be on display in Penrith City Library, and a Civic Reception will be held to honour the anniversary among other achievements and local heroes.

History from the last 150 years will be shared across our social media channels, plus the Winter Issue of Our Place community newsletter will celebrate our past achievements and the opportunities they have created for Penrith’s future. Later in the year, a commemorative booklet will be released in a limited print run and will also be available digitally.

To delve further into the 150 year-long history of Penrith City Council, please visit www.penrith.city/150years

Civic Centre lights up for Wear Orange Wednesday

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he Penrith Civic Centre will shine a shade of orange every night this week to reflect Penrith City Council’s gratitude for the tireless efforts of NSW State Emergency Service (SES) personnel.

Wear Orange Wednesday (19 May), also known as WOW Day, is an initiative which aims to acknowledge and thank SES volunteers for their hard work during times of crisis.

Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown OAM said the commitment by the SES to the community has been profound, particularly in recent months.

“It was only weeks ago that major storms lashed the City and caused Penrith’s worst flood since 1961, creating several road diversions and closures across the LGA which left some residents and businesses cut off,” Cr McKeown said.

“Our local SES crews were incredible during a time of great uncertainty – they were on the ground responding to the emergency and providing clear instructions for our staff to follow in order to help keep our community safe.

“From dealing with flood and storm damage, to assisting with bushfire efforts, we can always count on the SES and we thank them for their assistance.”

Penrith Unit Commander Scott Lynch was pleased to learn the Civic Centre will be awash with orange not just for WOW Day but an entire week as a show of appreciation.

“We have a great relationship with Penrith Council and we appreciate the ongoing support from Council in helping us undertake the type of work we do – we also thank the volunteers for their efforts,” he said.

Wear Orange Wednesday coincides with National Volunteer Week which celebrates the contribution of almost six million volunteers across Australia.

To find out more about the SES and how you can volunteer visit www.ses.nsw.gov.au/volunteer.

Penrith City Council’s General Manager Warwick Winn (second from left) and Mayor Karen McKeown OAM (second from right) pictured with members of the Penrith SES Unit.

COVER STORY

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ith 60 percent of construction of the St Marys Freight Hub in the heart of Western Sydney complete, Pacific National and ACFS Port Logistics have made a joint donation of $60,000 for a new community children’s playground at St Mary Magdalene Anglican Church.

Member for Londonderry Ms Prue Car MP was guest of honour at the donation ceremony. The new church playground will be open for all the community to enjoy with the outdoor facility including soft-fall flooring and sensory play equipment.

Pacific National CEO Paul Scurrah acknowledged the importance of ongoing support from community and local business groups towards the development of St Marys Freight Hub. “Community and business groups are excited how the freight hub will allow people to live and work in the region, leading to more time spent with family and pursuing local activities, as opposed to a return commute of 130 kilometres each day between Western Sydney and Port Botany. “Eighty on-site jobs have been generated since construction commenced in November last year, while in the future local businesses and trades will benefit from increased commercial activity associated with the new freight hub,” he said. Once fully operational, St Marys Freight Hub will take up to 80,000 truck trips off Sydney’s congested motorways and roads each year, while 175 skilled jobs will be created in Western Sydney, as part of a combined investment value of up to $100m between Pacific National and ACFS Port Logistics. The freight hub allows up to 300,000 shipping containers filled with a variety of essential goods and commodities to be hauled by rail from Port Botany to St Marys each year.

Mr Scurrah said a central tenet shared by both Pacific National and ACFS Port Logistics is to be closely connected and involved with the

The dignitaries & guests at St Mary Magdalene Anglican Church. Photos by Noel Rowsell

The presentation of the cheque

communities in which the businesses operate. “St Marys Freight Hub is more than just a site for our two companies to conduct freight and logistics operations – it will help attract, anchor and grow commercial enterprises and related job opportunities in the district and wider region for decades to come,” he said. Pacific National has partnered with Australia’s largest privately owned container logistics operator, ACFS Port Logistics, which will manage and operate the St Marys Freight Hub. ACFS will also deliver shipping containers the ‘last mile’ by truck to retail and wholesale customers at surrounding warehouses and distribution centres in Western Sydney. ACFS Port Logistics Chairman Terry Tzaneros said St Marys Freight Hub was ideally located to process large

volumes of containerised freight, with many of Australia’s major retailers and wholesalers operating national warehousing and distribution centres within a 15-kilometre radius of the new intermodal facility “There are enormous opportunities to unlock the full potential of St Marys Freight Hub with future development allowing unpacking of containers onsite, storage of goods and then rapid distribution for B2B and e-Commerce. The logistics opportunities are unparalleled in Western Sydney,” he said.

Mr Tzaneros said the strategically located 43-hectare freight hub – initially 10-hectares in size – will increase reliability and cost efficiency of freight movements for ACFS customers. It is located outside of Sydney’s road toll zone and will

help ensure freight deliveries are not delayed in traffic congestion on the city’s motorways and roads. “Contents of shipping containers include everything from fresh, refrigerated and tinned food, groceries, medical and pharmaceutical supplies, building products, and household items like whitegoods, electronics and furniture,” he said.

The historic church St Mary Magdalene, which is located at Magdalene Street, St Marys, is built on land given by the family of Phillip Gidley King (the third governor of the Colony), using bricks made from clay taken from Dunheved, the family property on South Creek.

The clay quarry and the King homestead are near to where the proposed Pacific National Freight Hub is to be built.

The locality and village of South Creek was eventually re-named St Marys, after the church name.

The church building was completed and consecrated by Bishop Broughton in 1840 and is still in use.

A small hall used for Sunday School and public meetings was built beside the church about 1870.

However, a few years ago it became unusable after extensive termite damage.

Extensive restoration work, mostly through voluntary labour and public donations, has restored the hall and its use by the community.

Penrith Commemorates 15th Anniversary of the National Servicemen’s Memorial The Penrith City Australian National Servicemen’s Association (Nasho’s) will commemorate the 15th Anniversary of the National Servicemen’s Memorial on Sunday 23rd May at Victoria Park, Penrith.

The service will be attended by Ms Prue Car MP, Member for Londonderry;

Mr Stuart Ayres MP, Federal member for Penrith; Ms Melissa McIntosh MP, Federal member for Lindsay; Mr Jim Aitken OAM, Patron of Penrith City NASHOS; Her Worship the Mayor of Penrith, Councillor Karen McKeown OAM and Mr Tony Fryer from the St Marys RSL Sub-branch.

Innovation benefits patients An innovative redesign of Nepean Hospital’s Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) clinic has improved access for patients and resulted in a 60 percent reduction on wait list times.

The redesign was a collaboration involving many teams who identified areas of focus and improvement that informed recommendations to enhance the quality of service.

“We value the care we provide at our ENT clinic. Our main goal was to keep that high standard of care but also keep patients out of the waiting room,” says Nurse Manager Surgical Outpatients Redesign, Angelo Fatato.

Nepean News 21 May 2021 Issue 303OWDIG

Children’s playground for the community of St Marys

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Nepean News 21 May 2021 Issue 303OWDIG

14

local news

RSPCA NSW celebrates National Volunteer Week

F

rom Monday 17 to Sunday 23 May, RSPCA NSW celebrates the pawsitive contribution our volunteers have made to animal welfare during National Volunteer Week 2021.

This year’s National Volunteer Week is a chance to recognise our volunteers who went the extra mile to reconnect with the organisation and reimagine the ways they provide support during the devastating droughts, bushfires, floods, and ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

RSPCA NSW incorporates 2924 volunteers across the state who gave 220,000 hours to helping people and animals this past year, including a couple of volunteers who are celebrating 40 years with RSPCA NSW. There is no one way to volunteer with RSPCA NSW; • Our volunteers utilised their professional skills or hobbies to assist with the day-to-day operations of our shelters, Care Centre and op shops.

• RSPCA NSW branches rehomed animals and provided crucial community assistance via fundraising drives in their townships.

• Foster carers provided loving home environments for animals to grow, mature and recover.

RSPCA NSW General Manager, Community and Engagement Ursula McGeown said, “our volunteers champion the RSPCA NSW name

within their local communities and their dedication and selflessness continues to give a voice to the abandoned, neglected and injured animals who need them.

“The work our volunteers do is invaluable, it creates a life-changing difference to animals in need, and RSPCA NSW would not be where we are today without the helping hand of our amazing volunteers.”

Please check all of our latest volunteer opportunities online if you or someone you know is interested in volunteering for RSPCA NSW.

Arthritis – not just a senior pet’s disease

A

s winter temperatures arrive, we often see an increase in arthritis cases in both young and old animals. One in five dogs suffers from the pain and disability caused by arthritis. Cats can also suffer from the damaging effects of this condition and may have difficulty grooming themselves or going to the toilet.

Arthritis is one of the most common conditions affecting dogs but as pets are unable to communicate their pain, the early signs of this illness are often missed or simply attributed to old age. Yet arthritis is a chronic, painful, degenerative condition that can develop gradually over time, affecting one or more joints (typically the hips, knees and elbows) and causing much inflammation and pain.

Arthritis is not limited to certain breeds and it can affect any pet at any age. It can influence a pet’s quality of life and prevent it from enjoying simple, daily activities such as walking, running or playing.

Signs that a pet may be suffering

from arthritis • reluctance to walk or play • limping • stiffness of joints in the morning or after a sleep • licking or biting of joints • difficulty in rising from a resting position • difficulty in climbing stairs • change in personality – less happy and playful or sometimes aggressive and irritable Managing Arthritis - Arthritis cannot be cured.

The key to controlling the pain associated with arthritis is managing the inflammation

within the joints. The added benefit to this is that with proper management, progression can be slowed.

• Weight control is extremely important when managing the symptoms and minimising the progression of arthritis. Excess weight will put additional pressure on already affected joints.

• Walking and swimming are the best forms of exercise for dogs with arthritis.

• Omega 3 fatty acids help block the inflammation around joints that causes pain. They also suppress the activity of an enzyme that causes

cartilage damage, thus slowing the progression of arthritis.

• Joint cartilage protective medications aim to increase joint fluid production and increase blood supply to joint surfaces. The use of polysulphate injections have been proven to slow the progression of arthritis and help control the pain associated with the disease. Antiinflammatory medications can also be used to help control the pain associated with arthritis • Neutraceuticals such as Green Lipped Mussel have also shown good results in assisting dogs with arthritis.

These products contain chondroitin and or glucosamine which are the ‘building blocks’ of cartilage.

• There are many prescription joint diets for both dogs and cats that have been shown to assist in alleviating the discomfort and improving the workings of diseased joints.

Before the Winter months arrive, have your pet assessed for arthritis.

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Nepean News 21 May 2021 Issue 303OWDIG

16

local news

Oxley Park Public School receives award for going green

P

enrith City Council congratulates Oxley Park Public School on being recognised as a leader in sustainability.

Last week the school became the first in NSW to receive and raise its Green Flag – the top award given by the Eco Schools program, which is a branch of Keep Australia Beautiful and promotes environmental awareness through education.

Oxley Park Public has achieved great success over the course of its eco-journey spanning the past five years.

Council’s Sustainability Champion, Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown OAM, visited Oxley Park on Friday 30 April with Deputy Mayor Tricia Hitchen and Councillor Robin Cook for a first-hand look at the school’s raft of environmental initiatives.

“Oxley Park Public is home to a vast sustainability program – I was blown away by the various projects staff and students have worked hard to roll out since their journey began,” Cr McKeown said.

“I was most impressed by the onsite farm, complete with chickens, ducks and a rabbit, as well as the Outdoor Café, where students take cooking classes; they prepare meals in a great space using produce from the very gardens they tend to during the week.

“It is fantastic to see such commitment from a local school, particularly one that has relied heavily

on grant funding to grow their ‘green’ program – they also save money in many ways such as using recycled materials to create garden beds.

“I am pleased to see our young people, the leaders of tomorrow, working towards a better future and I encourage all schools in our City to get on board.”

NSW Department of Education’s Murat Dizdar, Deputy Secretary School Performance – South, presented principal Kim Smith with

the Green Flag during an assembly and commended the school’s achievement.

“It is outstanding to see the school’s Eco-Committee, made up of staff and students, facilitate a range of programs and initiatives to encourage the entire school community to work together to minimise waste and reduce their impact on the environment,” Mr Dizdar said.

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that are used for Crunch and Sip, and supply ingredients for their Breakfast Club program.

The school also has an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Garden full of bush tucker plants and are involved in the No Bees No Future and Kreative Koalas projects, as well as a range of healthy lifestyle campaigns.

The school is also active in managing their waste by composting scraps and keeping a worm farm.

They undertake waste audits, collect materials for the Teracycle scheme and are part of the Litter Legends program.

See footage from the Mayor’s visit to Oxley Park Public School here:https://youtu.be/e4UppHGu1Qo

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local news

M

embers of the public in the 40 to 49-year-old category have begun to receive the Pfizer vaccine after they were invited to book an appointment.

More than 16,000 people aged 40 to 49 have been contacted to make an appointment at Sydney Olympic Park after they registered their interest to receive the Pfizer vaccine.

A further 1,000 people in this age group from the Blacktown LGA who registered their interest have also been contacted encouraging them to book an appointment at the Blacktown Hospital vaccination clinic.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said it was great to see 9,000 people in this group had already made a booking to receive their jab.

“The vaccine rollout is key if we want to open up our borders and live a normal life, that is why we are working hard to rollout the vaccine as quickly and as safely as possible,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“I’m encouraging everyone in NSW aged 40-49 to register their interest to receive the Pfizer vaccine as soon as possible”.

Health Minister Brad Hazzard said there would be additional Pfizer clinics available to receive bookings for registered 40-49-year-olds in the coming weeks including in regional

and rural areas.

“I encourage all who are eligible to get a vaccination as soon as possible as getting the jab builds our line of defence against this extremely dangerous virus,” Mr Hazzard said.

People aged 40-49 can register for the Pfizer vaccine here: nsw.gov.au/ People will be contacted when a booking is available.

People aged over 50 can book their AstraZeneca jab at the mass vaccination centre at Sydney Olympic Park, if they are unable to obtain the vaccination from their GP. Bookings

are available here: covid-vaccine. healthdirect.gov.au/eligibility.

Additional NSW Health AstraZeneca clinics will be available for bookings for people over 50 years of age from 24 May. In addition, there are around 1,500 GP practices across NSW taking bookings for over 50s to receive the AstraZeneca vaccine.

More than 900,000 people have been vaccinated in NSW through NSW Health and the GP network and other providers, more than any other state.

› Laser pointed at PolAir9; man charged – Colyton A man has appeared in court charged after allegedly pointing a laser at a NSW Police aircraft in Sydney’s west on Wednesday night.

About 11.40pm on Wednesday 19 May, PolAir9 – a fixed wing aircraft – was flying in the Kingswood area to assist Nepean Police Area Command with inquiries following a stabbing, when they were struck repeatedly by a laser.

A short time later, PolAir9 identified the location of the laser and coordinated ground crews to attend Desborough Road, Colyton, where a 42-year-old man was arrested.

The man was taken to Penrith Police Station and charged with use a laser pointer in public place, do act with intent to prejudice safety of aircraft, have in custody a laser pointer in public place and endanger safety of aircraft likely to endanger life.

Police will allege in court the laser continued to strike the aircraft for 10 minutes.

He was refused bail to appear before Penrith Local Court.

Nepean News 21 May 2021 Issue 303OWDIG

Nsw health begins to vaccinate 40-49 year olds

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ENTERTAINMENT

Morning Melodies: NSW Police Band at The Joan!

A

very exciting Morning Melodies concert this month with the NSW Police Band - Music from Stage & Screen!

Multi-award winning vocalist Belinda Adams and the NSW Police Band take mesmerised audiences on a musical journey through the songs of Gershwin, Cole Porter, Tchaikovsky, Mozart, Bernstein and Broadway with this repertoire of favourites.

The NSW Police Band is Australia’s oldest and longest continuously running concert band. Formed in 1895, in 2020 the band commemorated 125 years of dedicated service. Regarded as “The State Band of NSW” it is one of only two full-time police bands in existence in the country.

This talented and versatile group of 33 musicians, conducted by John Saunders, will present an irresistible program of all-time greats, Mack the Knife, Waltzing Matilda, All of Me, In the Mood, Memories, Don’t Cry for Me Argentina and many more, bound to have you tapping your toes, nodding to the music and humming all the way home.

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Nepean News 21 May 2021 Issue 303OWDIG

DINING

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Princess Nisha’s Kitchen Indian and Fijian style food and sweets

By Noel Rowsell

W

e dined a t Sittano’s in Penrith last Saturday night and judging by the number of people sharing our experience, the restaurant must be one of the hottest spots in town.

Bookings were obviously booming and no sooner had a table vacated, it was eagerly occupied by a seemingly neverending queue of eager diners.

The menu is extensive and offers something appealing from a wide range of options, from seafood, pastas, pizzas, steak and other meat dishes and also vegetarian.

It must be stated up front if you’re looking for a restaurant offering value for money, Sittano’s is up there with the best.

The selections from the Starters menu are generous (and

delicious), whilst the main course offerings ensure you cannot leave hungry at the end of the night.

We had the Arancini Rosso and Garlic Prawns for our Starters and these two dishes kicked off our dining experience fabulously, both deliciously cooked and generous servings.

Our main courses of Risotto Aragosta and Gnocchi Comarche continued the savoury experience, although there was regretfully simply too much for us to finish either dish.

Problem solved in an instant, with a ‘take-home’ offer and the chance to enjoy the remainder of the two dishes the following day for lunch.

Great service from everyone at the restaurant, from the maitre d’ to the wait staff and it was a pleasure to dine in such a friendly environment.

Sittano’s ticked every box and we’ll be back very soon for another great dining experience.

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ENTERTAINMENT

M

eet the most delightfully evil man alive, Mr Hyde.

This ridiculous rendition of Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic novel, Jekyll and Hyde is retold by a team of charmingly ‘French’ performers.

Gather up your friends, lovers, and distant cousins, and prepare to unleash your inner monster!

A Slightly Isolated Dog have built a reputation for shaking up well-known stories, and injecting their trademark outrageous physical comedy and twisted pop songs to the telling. It’s gloriously silly fun.

PERFORMANCE DATE & TIME Friday 28 May 7.30pm Saturday 29 May 2pm & 7.30pm TICKET PRICES Standard $45* | Concession $40* *PAL Members 10% Discount Standard $40.50 | Concession $36

Nepean News 21 May 2021 Issue 303OWDIG

Comedy. Thrills. Chaos. Delight.

23

ENTERTAINMENT

Nepean News 21 May 2021 Issue 303OWDIG

24

The Great Walk Foundation back on the road

T

he Annual Bathurst to Blaxland walk is back on this year from 25th-29th May and it will be the 13th trek by this dedicated group of walkers - all for charity.

This year’s participants are Trent Baker, Tony Bowden, Dave Crossman, Jonathan Green, Mark Mulock, Cameron McInnes, Greg Nelson, Graham O’Kell, Rob Wearn and Mark Geyer.

The annual walk has raised in excess of $1.4M in the past 13 years, with the funds being donated to local groups including: $100,000+ to Westcare (including the purchase of a new truck in 2020), a purpose-built trailer for sensory concerts, Panthers On The Prowl, Aged care beds at Springwood Hospital, specialised patient beds for the Cancer Ward at Nepean Hospital, Gotcha 4

Life, Tomorrow Man, Headspace, equipment for both Lithgow and Blue Mountains hospitals, a purpose-built vehicle for disabled passengers with NADO, The Haven Women’s Shelter, No Boundaries Art Group, 3 vehicles for Great Community Transport and Save Our Sons.

Major sponsors for this year’s walk are Penrith Waste Services, Mulgoa Quarries, Penrith Mazda, Direct Accounting and Equiptrade, whilst the Walk Partners are the Knickerbocker Hotel Bathurst, Gardners Inn Hotel Blackheath, Lapstone Hotel Blaxland and the Pioneer Hotel Penrith.

NEPEAN HISTORY

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

“baby boomers” were in those days just after the war. If we did get hurt it was up to Dr Day to get ere I sit broken hearted, paid a fixed. He was the resident doctor in St Marys and penny and only ….. well, you can a nicer man you wouldn’t meet. His daughter Dr guess the rest! This is the type of Prue was also lovely. Most of us went to St Marys graffiti that was on the inside walls of the Public School at the northern end of Princess public toilets when I was growing up. St Mary Street, first kindergarten (preschool now) Marys was known as a rural area back then. then infants & primary and not far from my home.

We all had a fairly big backyard where our There was also Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic parents grew the vegetables for the family School on Putland Street and Victoria Park was table, along with some chickens out the their play area when school was in. Us baby back in a handmade chook pen make by boomers were smacked when we were naughty, hit the male in the family. Nothing fancy, but with a cane or ruler when playing up at school and the chickens didn’t mind being at least kept disciplined according to the laws of those times. It away from harm. Not so, when you as a was either good or bad depending on the child. I small kid had a chook named “poppy” for a had my share, and a lot of my friends and cousins pet and one day “poppy” wasn’t around to  Family photo of me dressed in Sunday best did too, but we can safely say today that we were taken early 1950’s in Victoria Park with the play with. You were told that “poppy” was the generation who had the freedom of growing up memorial behind. old and died, but you didn’t know that the before the coming 1960’s that introduced drugs. “duck” you were eating for Sunday dinner was your pet “poppy”.

School was giving out milk to all the kids. Small bottles were given Back then you were taught to respect your elders, or you would get out each morning after being kept under a tree to keep cool. Of a clip over the ear from dad for being disrespectful. When all the course, this was not so if the day was hot! It put a lot of the kids off relations got together, you were told to go outside and play (to be milk, but I still love it. The school was also one of the vaccination seen and not heard). Back then, most families were fearful of what places for all the kids in the district. Several of the diseases were might “come out of the cupboard” meaning, they might have had a scarlet fever, diphtheria, typhoid fever, influenza, smallpox, cholera, convict in the family and didn’t want the world to know. So different Rubella, Mumps, Polio, whooping cough, measles and chicken pox now as we are all looking for convicts as part of our “Australian were prevalent when we were growing up. Lining up at school and Royalty”. A lot of families went to the extreme of burning all family standing in line to get vaccinated caused some of the kids to faint documentation after the funeral less someone outside the family and on seeing this, some kids became fearful and started crying. were to find out. By the time us “baby boomers” started school Sometimes this started a whole line of kids crying! Lollies were and making friends with the other kids in the rural district, it was handed out sometimes and that helped. Our games were imitated a time for starting to know who you could play with and those from the TV shows we saw. You were lucky if your parents could your families rejected. Us kids didn’t care, we were happy to play afford a TV back then and a lot of your friends could come and with anyone, especially if they were the same age as you. The baby watch it with you. This turned out to be great because all the kids boomer generation was a great time for kids to grow up even though could talk with you about those shows. TV came in black and white things were tough after WW2. I was one of the lucky ones as my in the 1950’s. Some of the first kids shows were the Mickey Mouse playground was Victoria Park in St Marys that was right across the Club, Bill & Ben the Flowerpot Men, Father Knows Best, Cheyenne road. Us neighbourhood kids would play on the cricket pitch and (Clint Walker), Roy Rogers & Trigger, Superman (George Reeves), play hide-&-seek in the deep earth drains around the outside of Lassie, Dennis the Menace, The Adventures of Rin Tin Tin, The the area of the park. There were swings, a slippery-dip, a monkey Huckleberry Hound Show, Leave it to Beaver, The Danny Thomas bar, a round-a-bout and an old water bubbler if we got thirsty. The Show, Annie Oakley, I love Lucy, Shari Lewis & Lamb Chop, boys would push the round-a-bout so hard trying to fling the girls Laurel & Hardy, Gunsmoke, The Donna Reed Show, Our Gang off. We would climb the trees and see who could get the highest (Alfalfa & the Little Rascals), The Cisco Kid, My Three Sons, The without falling off. The old WW1 war memorial was also one Andy Griffith Show, Mr Ed the Talking Horse, The Nelsons (Ossie of the favourites of us kids with the old WW1 German gun to sit & Harriet), I could go on forever!! All wholesome, no swearing, on and “shoot” the cars going by on the highway. Us kids would all sanitised, but we didn’t care. The 1950’s was the end of the best race each other up the side of the memorial and jump off the top. time to grow up. Our parents and neighbours never locked their Around September each year we were chased by the magpies who doors to us. We were free to roam without adults present and loved were protecting their young and made it hard to play in the park to forage for wood for the annual bonfire night with crackers and at that time. We had trikes, scooters, peddle cars and billy carts to fireworks that lit up the night sky and sadly banned later. We played play with. One of our neighbours had a cow and we had the best and learnt to swim in the local creeks and later come home before strawberry jam and cream sandwiches. Another neighbour had a dark, muddy, wet and happy. We didn’t know it at the time, but we horse and all the kids in the area had a ride. Not me, I got on and it were all living history. Time is running out for Baby Boomers to bucked me off! Not hurt but never tried it again. That was how us leave these memories for their family before it is too late.

H

If you are a local business and want to be in our next history book volume 2 please contact us now.

Korena on 0403 045 880 or Kerrie on 0422 067 644 *Ideally businesses who have been established 20 years or more

Nepean News 21 May 2021 Issue 303OWDIG

Memories of a Baby Boomer

25

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Nepean News 21 May 2021 Issue 303OWDIG

Master Pennant series tees off

By Noel Rowsell

T

he start of the 2021 Master Pennant (over 50’s) competition was underwhelming for the 10 local Golf clubs in Sydney’s west, with only 3 wins from 7 matches.

Twin Creeks CC overpowered neighbouring Dunheved 7-1 at Twin Creeks, Leonay GC also grabbed a 7-1 win over Richmond at Leonay and Glenmore Heritage Valley GC easily accounted for Windsor CC 6.5-1.5.

Stonecutters Ridge GC fell 3-5 to Cabramatta GC, Wallacia CC fell 2-6 to Marrickville, Springwood lost 3-5 to Moore Park GC and Penrith GC fell 3.5-4.5 to Kogarah GC. This Sunday’s round features the same contests but at the other club’s home course.

Dunheved host Twin Creeks, Windsor host Glenmore (at Richmond due to flood damage at Windsor), Richmond host Leonay, Stonecutters host Cabramatta, Wallacia host Marrickville, Springwood host Moore Park and Kogarah host Penrith.

27

Andrew Robb (Glenmore HVGC) in action earlier this year in the Glenmore Cup. File photo by Noel Rowsell

Funding grassroots footy clubs to tackle mental health from the ground up Rugby league clubs across the state will receive a mental health boost thanks to a $280,000 investment in the NRL’s flagship wellbeing initiative from the NSW Government.

The State of Mind program provides education and ongoing support to grassroots clubs to help reduce the stigma around mental illness and encourage those who need help to reach out.

Deputy Premier John Barilaro said the money will be a game changer for regional communities across NSW. “There will be 60 mental health workshops held around the state for primary school students, high school students and adults delivered at both schools and local footy clubs,” Mr Barilaro said.

“The workshops are age-appropriate and are an important way of getting the message out that it’s ok to talk about mental health and seek help if need be.

“The program connects rugby league communities,

including participants, fans and volunteers with mental health partners and local service providers.”

The key message behind the program is to ask young people the question: ‘What’s Your State of Mind?’.

Minister for Mental Health and Regional Youth Bronnie Taylor said breaking down the stigma of mental health has come a long way, but more needs to be done.

“We’re building a safer, stronger regional NSW and the State of Mind program is a fantastic way to reach people from Muswellbrook to Merimbula,” Mrs Taylor said.

“Rugby league clubs are often at the heart of the community and getting young people talking about their mental health and wellbeing is a brilliant way to spread the word.

“There are also face-to-face sessions to improve mental health literacy as well as resources for clubs

to educate players and fans of all ages.”

More than 5000 people across Australia have already participated and 281 mental health action plans have been drawn up.

NRL CEO Andrew Abdo thanked the NSW Government for its support of the program.

“The NRL has a strong commitment to using the power of rugby league across communities and the profile of NRL players to make a positive social impact,” Mr Abdo said.

“Improving the mental wellbeing of our players, volunteers and administrators is a priority and with the support of the NSW Government thousands of additional people in our communities will be able to benefit from the State of Mind program.

“The State of Mind program is aimed at providing a toolkit for people of all ages to monitor and manage their overall wellbeing and to look for the early indicators that they or someone else needs support.”

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Nepean News 21 May 2021 Issue 303OWDIG

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SPORT

Shoosh for Kids this Winter P

oor spectator behaviour at junior sport is set to be addressed throughout NSW with the Shoosh for Kids Winter Awareness Month taking place this May. Member for Mulgoa, Tanya Davies MP encouraged local clubs and associations to support the state-wide message, with more than 600 clubs already committed across NSW. “We want to see kids throughout the Nepean region have a positive experience no matter what sport they are participating in,” Mrs Davies said.

“I look forward to our local sports clubs getting behind this initiative and reminding parents and spectators that poor behaviour will not be tolerated”.

Minister for Sport Geoff Lee said the campaign was timely with the recommencement of winter sport seasons across the State.

“With a full season to look forward to this winter, the Shoosh for Kids message is more important than ever”, Mr Lee said.

“It’s great to see larger crowds and families back at community sport, and we all have a responsibility to ensure it is a fun, safe environment for children.

One of the best ways we can do this is to keep comments positive so that kids want to keep playing and enjoying the benefits that sport offers.”

“We know that young people thrive with positive adult role models and the Shoosh for Kids initiative reinforces positive, supportive behaviours in sport”.

Shoosh for Kids Winter Awareness Month will run from 1 to 31 May 2021, with free resources available to clubs and associations that sign up throughout the campaign.

For more information or to sign up, visit: sport.nsw.gov.au/ shooshforkids

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Nepean News 21 May 2021 Issue 303OWDIG

30

SPORT

It’s game on for cricketers at newly improved Rance Oval

P

layers, officials and spectators are enjoying the enhanced facilities that Rance Oval at Werrington has to offer after its recent upgrade.

The recently completed Stage 2 infrastructure upgrade includes an expanded amenities block that now features showers in the player’s change rooms, unisex umpire change rooms, increased canteen and club storage, as well as improved public toilets.

A new and automatic sub-surface irrigation system rounds out the $585,000 revamp, which brings the well-utilised site up to modern Australian standards.

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

Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown OAM said the project’s completion is a “huge win” for the City.

“While Rance Oval is a popular location for Penrith Cricket Club Premier Cricket matches, as well as Penrith’s junior and senior representative teams, the state of the amenities block and grounds previously held us back from drawing more cricket players, officials and even observers to the site – until now,” Cr McKeown said.

“With the improved facilities, Council can now encourage greater participation in the growing sport, on local grounds that will be in quality condition ahead of the summer season.

“It is also fantastic to see the added unisex amenities as this will allow us to welcome more females to the fields and give Council the chance to host Women’s cricket competitions at Rance Oval going forward.”

The NSW ICC T20 World Cup Legacy Fund supports growth in cricket participation in NSW and ensure a lasting legacy from the women’s and men’s T20 World Cups.

Minister for Sport Geoff Lee said the Rance Oval project is a great example

Lachlan Steuart (CNSW Cricket Manager - Penrith/ Blue Mountains), Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown OAM (centre) and Paul Goldsmith (President Penrith Cricket Club) at the recently completed Rance Oval facilities

of the NSW ICC T20 World Cup 2020 Cricket Legacy Fund benefiting grassroots and community cricket.

“The Legacy Fund invests in all levels of cricket, from girls and boys picking up a bat and ball for the first time, to assisting elite players at events across NSW,” Mr Lee said.

“The Fund is providing $6 million to support over 200 projects which in turn will deliver a positive impact for cricket within local communities.”

Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres said the new facilities at Rance Oval were a welcome addition to a range of premier sporting facilities in the region.

“Cricket is extremely strong in Penrith and the region has produced many NSW and Australian representatives over the years, including current Test Vice Captain, Pat Cummins,” Mr Ayres said.

“The new facilities at Rance Oval

will guarantee Penrith remains a breeding ground for Australia’s best cricketers and allow local players to dream of wearing the baggy green like Pat Cummins did not too long ago.”

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”.

ICC T20 World Cup Acting CEO Michelle Enright is thrilled the new facilities will have a lasting positive impact.

“The Local Organising Committee is delighted to be working in partnership with the NSW Government and Cricket NSW to ensure that hosting two ICC T20 World Cups in Australia has a lasting positive impact,” Ms Enright said.

“We are thrilled that the Legacy Fund has assisted with the construction of new facilities at Rance Oval which will benefit the community well into the future as a direct legacy of hosting the T20 World Cup.” The Rance Oval, Werrington upgrade was identified as a priority in Council’s Sport and Recreation Strategy.

www.penrithrsl.com.au